Definition  

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) is a personality disorder characterized by excessive perfectionism and a need for control over one's environment. People with OCPD tend to be reliable and orderly, but also inflexible and unable to surrender control.
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Causes  

It is not clear what causes personality disorders, but it is likely a combination of inherited factors and a person's environment.
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Risk Factors  

Factors that may increase your risk of developing OCPD include:
  • Sex: males, especially in early adulthood
  • Family history of OCPD or OCD
  • Background of harsh discipline
  • Being the oldest child
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Symptoms  

Symptoms may include:
  • Perfectionism interfering with task completion
  • Rigidity
  • Being frugal with money
  • Overattention to detail
  • Excessive devotion to work
  • Inability to discard worn or useless items
  • Extreme morality
  • Inability to delegate tasks or share
  • Stiff, formal, and/or rigid mannerisms
  • Extreme preciseness and/or punctuality
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Diagnosis  

You will likely be referred to a psychiatrist or therapist, who will ask you about your symptoms and mental and medical health history. A diagnosis will be made after a complete psychiatric assessment.
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Treatment  

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:

Counseling  

Counseling that includes psychotherapy or cognitive behavior therapy can help people with OCPD learn to have fun, avoid over-intellectualizing, and address control issues.

Medications  

In some cases, anti-depressant medications can help reduce obsessive-compulsive personality traits. However, long-term use of medications for OCPD has not been helpful. Anti-depressants may also be used to treat an associated condition, like depression .
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Prevention  

There is no known way to prevent OCPD. Early diagnosis and treatment can reduce how much the personality traits interfere with your life.