Almost everybody has an obsession or feels a compulsion to do something a certain way. Magic numbers, intrusive thoughts, unusual fears and superstitions happen to about four people out of five, but where do these obsessive-compulsive (OC) traits come from? This book explores what they are, why we have them and what we can do about them, through fascinating and highly original insights.

Are you a perfectionist, or can you be fussy? Do you like to have control in certain situations? Or are you overly anxious in others? These are all OC traits, and this book looks at their recent increase in human behaviour, and how they are formed in the brain. Showing that these traits are more common in highly educated, intelligent and successful people, it highlights the positive sides of what have previously been seen as negative quirks.

Weaving together sections that are anecdotal and humorous, with technical and up-to-date scientific information, this groundbreaking book gives a fascinating introduction into an under-discussed personality type.

What are obsessive-compulsive traits, what causes them and what can we do about them?

About the Author
C. Thomas Gualtieri is a neuropsychiatrist and founding director of the North Carolina Neuropsychiatry Clinics. He is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

Reviews
In a time when representations of OCD feature heavily in the media and it has almost become fashionable to claim 'I am a little bit OCD', Dr Gualtieri's novel offers a frank and illuminating alternative perspective. Through clever use of personal anecdotes and reflection on theory and practice, he seamlessly juxtaposes science with satire to illustrate the obsessive compulsive trait whilst clearly differentiating it from the often disabling disorder. As a professional working with OCD and anxiety disorders, as well as an individual who can definitely identify with the 'OC trait', I found this to be a thoroughly enjoyable read offering equal measure of edification and amusement. -- Dr Sasha Walters, MsC, PhD, DClinPsy Berkshire CAMHS Anxiety and Depression Pathway, University of Reading
With wit and humor and a charming personal, conversational style, Dr. Gualtieri's treatment of our obsessions and compulsions is far more than a medical study of the brain. It's an engaging, pleasurable read and deserves not only professional praise but a wide, popular audience. -- James Reston, Jr., author of Fragile Innocence: A Father's Memoir of His Daughter's Courageous Journey



Book Information
ISBN 9781785928178
Author C. Thomas Gualtieri
Format Paperback
Page Count 424
Imprint Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Publisher Jessica Kingsley Publishers
Weight(grams) 542g
Dimensions(mm) 234mm * 169mm * 33mm