Ocd In As Good As It Gets

The main character, Melvin, in the movie “As good as it gets” suffers from obsessive compulsive disorder. Melvin’s obsessive-compulsive behaviors consist of avoiding cracks on the sidewalk or on the floors, locking his door a specific amount of times, washing his hands with a brand new bar of soap every time with steaming hot water, worry of germs, and eating at the same restaurant with the same waitress at the same table. The DSM-5 (2013) states “the obsessions or compulsions are time-consuming or cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Although Melvin’s symptoms may have prolonged certain activities, or caused irritability when he was unable to fulfill his compulsion, it could be argued that Melvin’s personality and behaviors that are differential from the OCD inhibit his functioning more than the presenting diagnosis. …show more content…
Does Melvin’s personality overlap with his symptoms? Melvin mentioned being abused by his father as a child which very much so explains his difficulty in social and romantic relationships. There could be significant trauma caused by this and a possible co-occurring diagnosis may be appropriate which may better explain the distress in his social functioning. Melvin lacked empathy, and the ability to express his feeling towards others. Melvin’s past could significantly contribute to his behavior which would be crucial information to know. Melvin’s symptoms and rituals related to his OCD lessened as he began to build friendships and romantic relationships. This is not a treatment for obsessive compulsive