Celebration of Scholars
P62 - Perfectionism and the Obsessive-Compulsive Related Disorders: An Expanded Investigation Using a New Measure of Perfectionism
Name:
Theodore Hoffman
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Racine Wisconsin
Faculty Sponsor: Sara O'Brien
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Independent research
Name:
Seliz Arizmendi
Major: Psychology/Criminal Justice
Hometown: Kenosha, Wisconsin
Faculty Sponsor: Sara O'Brien
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Independent research
Name:
Amber Janke
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Union Grove ,Wisconsin
Faculty Sponsor: Sara O'Brien
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Independent research
Name:
Sara O'Brien
Department: Social Science
Type of research: Independent research
Name:
Tyler Pasquale
Major: Psychology/Sociology
Hometown: North Mankato,Minnesota
Faculty Sponsor: Sara O'Brien
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Independent research
Name:
Lin Sensenbrenner
Major: Psychology/Neuroscience
Hometown: Sun Prairie,Wisconsin
Faculty Sponsor: Sara O'Brien
Other Sponsors:
Type of research: Independent research
Abstract
Perfectionism is a transdiagnostic risk factor implicated in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders (OCRDs), including body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), hoarding disorder (HD), skin-picking disorder, and hair-pulling disorder. While perfectionism’s role in OCD is well established (Eagen et al., 2011), its influence on other OCRDs remains less understood. Previous research links self-oriented and socially prescribed perfectionism to BDD and suggests its involvement in skin-picking and hair-pulling disorders. Additionally, perfectionism complicates HD treatment (Pinto et al., 2017). However, inconsistencies in measurement have hindered a clear understanding of these relationships.
To address these gaps, Robinson et al. (2020) developed a hierarchical, multidimensional perfectionism measure. Our lab’s preliminary data (Sensenbrenner et al., 2024) suggested specific perfectionism dimensions may relate to OCD symptoms, but the small sample (n = 58) limited conclusions. This study expands on those findings with a larger sample (N > 900) recruited from three universities. We will conduct multiple regressions to examine how four perfectionism domains predict OCRD symptoms, including subscales of OCD and BDD, while controlling for negative affect. We hypothesize achievement-striving will correlate with OCD ordering and checking symptoms, while other relationships remain exploratory.
By identifying both common and distinct perfectionism dimensions across OCRDs, this study aims to clarify perfectionism’s role in these disorders and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of symptom heterogeneity.
Submit date: March 16, 2025, 5:36 p.m.