What characteristic is associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder?

The characteristic most commonly associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a focus on orderliness and perfectionism. Individuals with OCD often experience intrusive thoughts that compel them to engage in repetitive behaviors or mental acts as a means to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event. These behaviors can manifest as a preoccupation with order, symmetry, cleanliness, or perfection in various aspects of life.

This perfectionism is not just a desire for neatness; it can become a distressing obsession that significantly interferes with day-to-day functioning and quality of life. For example, someone with OCD might spend an excessive amount of time arranging items in a specific order or repeatedly checking that everything is perfectly aligned or cleaned.

Recognizing the fundamental connection between these characteristics and the nature of OCD helps in understanding not only the disorder itself but also the challenges faced by those who live with it.