Relationship OCD (ROCD)
What is Relationship OCD – ROCD?
Individuals suffering from this type of OCD will often feel that they are constantly thinking about their relationship with a partner, loved one, family member, friend, or coworker.
Relationship OCD (ROCD) is a form of OCD in which the individual experiences intrusive, unwanted and distressing thought’s about the strength, quality , and “true nature” of their love for their partner.
This can manifest, to include needing to know if your significant other is “the one”, someone you should or should not marry, and if you are right for each other.
Common Obsessions (fears and doubts)
- Am I with the right person
- What if he/she is not “the one?”
- “What if I don’t really love my partner?”
- Am I in the right relationship?
- I can imagine cheating, I must secretly want to be with someone else.
- ·I didn’t completely enjoy that kiss, does that mean I’m not attracted to my partner?”
- “I noticed another attractive man/woman…I must be in the wrong relationship”
- Fixation on perceived flaws, appearance and character
Common Compulsions (safety behaviors)
- Avoidance of being around attractive people
- Avoidance of being intimate
- Avoidance of saying “I love you”
- Asking family members/friends to rate compatibility of your relationship
- Compulsive reassurance from others you are in the right relationship
- Mentally comparing your partner with others
- Mentally checking your arousal in intimate moments