Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder is also known as anankastic personality disorder. An individual diagnosed with this disorder is over concerned by the idea of perfectionism and is constantly compelled to maintain order accompanied by stubborn criteria of rules and procedures. For instance, he /she will go to great lengths to maintain cleanliness or keep the books in a specific order etc. Individuals with this disorder tend to undergo a great deal of stress if everything around them is nor organized in the perfect manner and may feel uncomfortable or anxious even if things are slightly disorganized. The four main areas that cause anxiety in obsessive-compulsive personalities are time, relationship, un-cleanliness and money. These individuals do not have very good interpersonal relationships as they place excessive demands and rules regarding maintaining orderliness of their spouses, children, friends, relatives and colleagues. They do to like it if someone changes the position in which an object was placed even to a minute degree.

Individuals with this disorder are obsessed with adhering to careful rules and schedules in order to control their surroundings and those around them. They are extremely careful about every move in order to avoid making mistakes and tend to repeatedly check if everything is organized. They are preoccupied with the slightest of details and are extremely thorough in performing everything. This can sometimes cause them to become dysfunctional in situations when things are not organized or up to the mark as perceived by them. Moreover, the amount of time and effort contributed to organizing things can disable them to an extent that they might not be able to complete other important tasks.

Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD):

Individuals with this disorder are extremely meticulous, disciplined and organized.

Even the slightest of deviation from their rigid rules can become a cause of worry and stress.

They often have difficulty in getting id of old household items such as pens, books, clothes, decoration pieces, curtains etc.

They are stingy and calculative.

They have difficulty in handling over tasks to others and feel that only they themselves can perform them with accuracy.

They have disturbing interpersonal relationships and are perceived by others as rigid, cold and strict.

Treatment:

It is essential to treat this disorder as it may cause a great deal of disruption in the normal functioning of the individual at social, professional and personal levels. Medications such as anafranil, luvox and paxil are used to eliminate some of the symptoms of this disorder. A combination of medications and psychotherapy is often used in the treatment process.