Which feature is characteristic of Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder?

• A. Recurrent intrusive thoughts and obsessions
• B. Preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control
• C. Marked mood swings
• D. Fear of losing control

Answer: (B)

Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder is defined by a pervasive pattern of preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism, and control. This set of traits tends to be rigid and ego-syntonic—people believe their way of doing things is correct, even if it creates problems in functioning or relationships. The emphasis is on lasting personality style rather than episodic distress.

So the feature described—being preoccupied with orderliness, perfectionism, and control—fits this pattern best. In contrast, recurrent intrusive thoughts and obsessions are hallmark features of obsessive-compulsive disorder, not the personality disorder; marked mood swings point to a mood disorder; and a fear of losing control is typically associated with anxiety-provoking conditions rather than a defining OCPD trait.