The biochemical basis of neurotic perfectionism is closely linked to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD). The DSM-V defines perfectionism as a characteristic of OCD, highlighting the relationship between these disorders. While the underlying mechanisms remain largely unexplored, resources from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) provide valuable insights into the biochemistry of OCD. Notably, neurotic perfectionism is often a manifestation of OCPD, which is distinct from OCD but frequently comorbid with it.
PREREQUISITESMental health professionals, psychologists, and researchers interested in the biochemical and psychological aspects of perfectionism and its relationship with OCD and OCPD.
OCPD is often confused with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Despite the similar names, they are two distinct disorders—OCD is an anxiety disorder and OCPD is a personality disorder. Some OCPD individuals do have OCD, and the two are sometimes found in the same family,[14] sometimes along with eating disorders.[15] People with OCPD do not generally feel the need to repeatedly perform ritualistic actions—a common symptom of OCD—and usually find pleasure in perfecting a task, whereas people with OCD are often more distressed after their actions...