Why Do I Desire Strict Adherence To Orderliness And Control Over My Environment?

Are you preoccupied with details, rules, lists, order, organization, or schedules to the extent that the major point of the activity is lost?

Do you show perfectionism that interferes with task completion (e.g., are you unable to complete a project because your own overly strict standards are not met)?

Are you excessively devoted to work and productivity to the exclusion of leisure activities and friendships (not accounted for by obvious economic necessity)?

Are you overconscientious, scrupulous, and inflexible about matters of morality, ethics, or values (not accounted for by cultural or religious identification)?

Are you unable to discard worn-out or worthless objects even when they have no sentimental value?

Are you reluctant to delegate tasks or to work with others unless they submit to exactly your way of doing things?

Do you adopt a miserly spending style toward both self and others; money is viewed as something to be hoarded for future catastrophes?

Do you show rigidity and stubbornness?

It is completely normal to be organized and to have some degree of perfectionism in the things you do. But when these behaviors are extreme, one may be suffering from obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have OCPD, but you may be displaying a sign related to it. OCPD is a mental disturbance characterized by extreme order and perfectionism. People with OCPD feel the urge to impose their own standards on other people. They believe that their way of thinking and doing things is the right way. In case you are not sure about your symptoms, it may be recommended to visit your doctor.

While it is unlikely that you have obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), you are displaying some signs related to it. It may be useful to seek medical attention. People with OCPD may have difficulties finishing a task because they can’t seem to find the ‘best’ way to complete it. OCPD is different from OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder): while a person with OCD may have rigid behaviors, he does not have an overwhelming need to repeat these behaviors while a person with OCD does. Besides, a person with OCD is usually aware of his problem, but someone with OCPD thinks his behavior is normal and other persons need to change.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). It is recommended to seek medical attention for your symptoms. Treatment usually includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation training and medication. CBT is focused on improving your ability to interact with others and to empathize with people close to you. Relaxation training helps you to learn breathing and relaxation techniques to decrease stress levels. The outlook for OCPD is pretty good, treatment can help to improve quality of life and to make the person understand how symptoms can negatively affect others and relationships.