Obsessive Compulsive Anxiety Disorder Case Study

In The Office: Angela with Obsessive Compulsive Anxiety Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Anxiety Disorder is defined as a personality disorder that “as an extensive pattern of preoccupation with perfectionism, orderliness, and interpersonal and mental control, at the cost of efficiency, flexibility and openness (American Psychiatric Association 2013).” This disorder affects between 2-9% of the U.S. population, and symptoms begin to show throughout a person’s middle adulthood. Men are twice as likely to be diagnosed with this disorder. In order to have OCPD, one must exhibit four of the follow eight symptoms to be considered someone with this particular disorder.
1. Is preoccupied with details, rules, lists, order, organization, or schedules

Is unable to discard worn-out or worthless objects even when they have no sentimental value.
6. Is reluctant to delegate tasks or to work with others unless they submit to exactly his or her way of doing things.
7. Adopts a miserly spending style toward both self and others; money is viewed as something to be hoarded for future catastrophes.
8. Shows rigidity and stubbornness. (American Psychiatric Association 2013)
This personality disorder should not be confused with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which has become it’s own disorder according to the new fifth edition of the DSM. There are similarities between both disorders, but people with OCD are seen as having unhealthy living habits that affect their day-to-day lives drastically. They also are completely aware at their habits are disorderly, and they have a desire to change that way of living. They want to be able to change the way they live. People with OCPD are often seen as being people who are experienced with having a certain routine, as well being cautious and having the drive to achieve perfection. They also have no idea that this way of living is unnatural, and they believe their way of living and doing this is the correct way regardless of other’s

Genetics could be a possible factor, but there has not been enough research done to link it to the disorder. There are several theories that link parenting styles with how their children will behave. Some believe that overprotective and controlling parents cause their children to cope with it by trying to be “perfect” and do tasks well in order to avoid punishment. There may also be cultural factors that play into children developing this disorder. Some cultures or religions are very strict and demanding, which may lead to children developing this personality disorder to be able to live by the rules of the society/religion (International OCD Foundation