Examining the Relationships Between Perfectionism and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptom Dimensions Among Rural Veterans

Abstract

Perfectionism, a trait-like individual difference variable reflecting the tendency to set extremely high standards along with critical evaluations of one's own behavior, has long been regarded as a risk and maintenance factor for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, research exploring the relationship between these constructs is mixed. One explanation for these equivocal findings is the heterogeneous nature of OCD. Indeed, there is increasing evidence for distinct symptom dimensions that are more homogenous than the broad OCD phenotype. The current study examined the associations between self-reported perfectionism and OCD symptom dimensions controlling for probable depression status. The sample included 67 rural veterans. Results revealed a unique association between perfectionism and the unacceptable thoughts dimension of OCD. These findings are consistent with a growing body of literature demonstrating that OCD symptom dimensions have unique underlying dysfunctional beliefs.