Alone together: the role of existential concerns in symptoms of relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder

ObjectiveEmerging research has identified the relevance of existential concerns in various subtypes and dimensions of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). However, at present, no studies have examined these concerns in relation to relationship OCD (ROCD).MethodThe current study examined the association between ROCD symptoms and all five existential concerns (i.e., isolation, identity, meaninglessness, guilt, and death). Data was obtained from a sample of undergraduate university students in Sydney, Australia (N = 353), Mage = 20.95 years. Participants completed a number of scales including measures of ROCD symptoms, attitudes to relationships, and existential concerns.ResultsThe results revealed significant positive correlations between all five existential concerns and ROCD symptoms. In particular, the correlations found for Isolation and Identity concerns were significantly larger than those found for Meaninglessness, Guilt, and Death. Notably, the relationships between ROCD symptoms and all five existential concerns remained significant after controlling for quality of current relationship, catastrophic beliefs about relationships, and neuroticism.ConclusionsThe current findings highlight the need to consider existential issues in conceptualising ROCD. Clinical implications are discussed. What is already known about this topic: The "big five" existential concerns (i.e. meaninglessness, death anxiety, identity, isolation, guilt) have been linked to various mental illnesses.Specific existential concerns, such as death anxiety, have been linked to several domains of OCD symptoms.No study has explored these existential concerns in the context of relationship OCD symptoms.What this topic adds:All five existential concerns are associated with symptoms of relationship OCD.In particular, isolation and identity concerns emerged as most relevant to this presentation.Existential concerns should be considered in the conceptualisation and treatment of ROCD.