The Network Structure of Relationship Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder Presentations: The Interplay between ROCD Symptoms with Maladaptive and Non-Maladaptive Personality Traits

The current study aimed to utilize a network perspective to identify the core symptoms of Relationship Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder (ROCD), encompassing both partner-focused and relationship-centered presentations. Additionally, we examined the interaction between ROCD symptoms and personality traits.

493 participants were included in the current study. The Personality Inventory for DSM-5 – short form (PID-5-SF), NEO Five-Factor Inventory, Partner-Related Obsessive–Compulsive Symptoms Inventory (PROCSI), and Relationship Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory (ROCI) were used to estimate the network structure. Specifically, we computed network structure, bridge expected influence (BEI), and Exploratory Graph Analysis (EGA) for ROCD scales.

In the ROCI network, items 1 and 11 (ROCI.1: "The idea that my affection for my partner is not genuine troubles me," ROCI.7: Thoughts that something is "off" in my relationship significantly disturb me.) emerged as the most important nodes (ROCI.1: Betweenness:1.777, Closeness:1.025, Strength: .872; ROCI.11" Betweenness: 1.097, Closeness:0.457, strength:.699). Additionally, ROCI.7 stands out with significant Betweenness and Expected Influence, emphasizing its importance in facilitating communication and influencing information flow. Conversely, in the PROCI network, item 2 (PROCI.2: "I am constantly questioning whether my partner is deep and intelligent enough") was identified as the most crucial node (Betweenness: 2.568, Closeness: 2.528, Strength: 1.905). Neuroticism is highly influential in the interaction of personality traits with the ROCI scale (BEI: .3781), connecting non-maladaptive traits, while Negative affect, a maladaptive trait, has a significant impact (Bridge Value: .283).

The present study provided a detailed examination of the psychological dynamics within romantic relationships, highlighting key cognitive processes and personality trait.