A narrative review of relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder: Characteristics, causes and cognitive-behavioural interventions

Abstract

Aim: The paper describes the characteristics of relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder (R-OCD), including the types of obsessions and compulsions, the common triggers and the impact on psychological well-being and relationship functioning. It also offers basic cognitive-behavioural strategies to help patients change their attitudes towards obsessive thoughts and reduce compulsive behaviours.

Methods: This article is a narrative review of the literature and case studies on R-OCD. To search for relevant sources, we used PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases with the keywords "relationship obsessive compulsive disorder", "R-OCD", "relationship OCD" and "partner-focused OCD". We included only studies published in English from January 1990 to June 2023. The paper provides examples of how basic cognitive-behavioural strategies help individuals with R-OCD.

Results: People with R-OCD experience intrusive thoughts about whether they have the right feelings for their partner, whether their partner loves them, whether the relationship is suitable or whether their partner has flaws. These thoughts trigger the urge to perform various rituals to alleviate anxiety, such as repeated checking, reassurance or comparison. However, this behaviour leads to disruption of the relationship and long-term maintenance of the anxiety. Examples of basic cognitive-behavioural strategies can be applied in clinical practice to help individuals change their attitudes towards relational obsessive thoughts and reduce compulsive behaviours.