Date of Submission

2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Stephanie Felgoise, PhD, ABPP

First Advisor

Alexa Bonacquisti, PhD, PMH-C

Second Advisor

Susan Panichelli Mindel, PhD

Third Advisor

Jenna DiLossi, PsyD, ABPP

Abstract

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a distressing condition in which individuals experience recurrent intrusive and unwanted thoughts (i.e., obsessions), engage in repetitive behaviors (i.e., compulsions), or both. A relatively underexplored presentation of OCD involves obsessions and compulsions centered on romantic relationships, referred to as relationship OCD (ROCD). Although OCD has been extensively studied, research specific to ROCD remains limited. Disordered eating behaviors, retroactive jealousy, social media use, social comparison, and relationship history may be associated with the development and maintenance of ROCD. The current study examined these variables as predictors of two forms of ROCD: relationship-centered and partner-focused symptoms. Gender differences were also examined. Using a cross-sectional survey design, 113 individuals completed an online survey that included self-report measures of the study variables. Findings revealed that disordered eating symptoms were positively correlated with relationship-centered, but not partner-focused, ROCD symptoms. In addition, retroactive jealousy and social comparison of one’s partner to others significantly predicted both forms of ROCD symptoms. Gender differences emerged such that females reported higher levels of relationship-centered, but not partner-focused, ROCD symptoms compared to males. These findings contribute to the growing literature on ROCD and highlight potential targets for assessment and intervention in both clinical and subclinical populations.

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