is ocd linked to perfectionism - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Message Board

kcshawn · 11-19-2004, 08:46 AM

Okay, I have never been diagnosed has having OCD but have noticed as I get older that certain quirky habits have increased. BTW I am a 33 year old male. Anyway, I have always been something of a perfectionist and will repeat tasks over and over till they are just right. For instance I am dreading the holidays because I obsesse about the tree & decoration's. I literally will spends hours on the tree making sure the lights are just right etc. I have even taken the dang thing down and started over again. I am so tired of dealing with this and have even thought of not putting any decorations up this year to avoid the stress. I guess my question is can perfectionistic habits turn into ocd? Thanks.

elenaroberts · 11-19-2004, 01:48 PM

i think your symptoms look like obsessive personality disorder.these people always look for the perfect,more perfect all the time just like you,ive read this in a health book i think youd better see a doctor cause if its a personality disorder you should prevent it before it gets worse.

yimyim · 12-10-2004, 11:46 PM

I don't know. But I do know that my husband took psychological testing which found him to be "conpulsive" as well as indicated he had "perfectioniam" tendancies.

I personally would think that logically, there could be a connection. If one feels the impulse to do certain things a certain way that they feel is the "right" way and the impulse is OCD related, it could be viewed as perfectionism. Since perfectionism is a need to have things done a particular way that one views as being the best way. Am I making sense?

openseason · 12-11-2004, 11:25 AM

The root of your obsession is the fear of being judged. So if you do everything perfectly, you cannot be judged. Therefor perfectionism is a type of OCD, and I know because I have it.

getwell2005 · 01-06-2005, 02:11 PM

I have a great fear of being judged or riducled. I obsess about what other people think of me or there perception of me. I am so concerned with making a good first impression when I meet new people. I think people are talking about me behind there back. These obsessive thoughts make me feel crazy? How am I suppose to overcome this paranoia? Any Suggestions?