Letting it linger: Exploring the longitudinal effects of relationship-related obsessive-compulsive phenomena

Relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder (ROCD) symptoms are characterized by obsessive doubts and preoccupation centered on the relationship (i.e., relationship-centered) or the relationship partner (i.e. partner-focused). Such obsessions often lead to significant distress and are associated with compulsive behaviors (e.g., compulsive checking and reassurance seeking) aimed at mitigating this distress. The current study examined the reciprocal relationship between partner-focused and relationship-centered obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms over time. Participants (N =141) completed measures of partner-focused and relationship-centered OC symptoms at two time points one year apart. Partner-focused symptoms were associated with a relative increase in relationship-centered symptoms one year later. Relationship-centered symptoms were associated with the persistence of partner-focused symptoms one year later, but only among individuals in long-lasting relationships. The potentially detrimental effects of ROCD symptoms within romantic relationships are discussed.