What is excessive self-control or an overcontrol temperament?

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The overcontrolled (OC) personality type takes self-control to the extreme, which can interfere with personal growth, happiness and the formation of healthy interpersonal relationships.

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Some common overcontrolled personality traits include:

  • extreme cautiousness around others

  • excessive inhibition of emotions

  • reluctance to try something new or unknown

  • being overly competitiveness with others

  • inability to be flexible or go with the flow

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Individuals with overcontrolled tendencies are often high achievers who excel in academic and professional environments. They pride themselves in being able to do things on their own and have a difficult time asking for help.

They may spend considerable time masking negative emotions and adjusting their presentation to appear “fine,” even when they are experiencing significant feelings of anxiety or anger.  This makes it very difficult for others to notice when they are struggling or need help and often increases feelings of isolation and loneliness. 

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Left untreated, individuals may experience high levels of anxiety and depression because they do not understand “what they are doing wrong” or why other people seem to intuitively understand how to engage socially with ease.  Clients with overcontrolled tendencies are more likely to be diagnosed with disorders of excessive control such as OCD, social anxiety and eating disorders. 

Here are Partners in Wellness we understand that once client with OC coping tendencies understands what the issue is they are able to make appropriate changes that life to a higher quality of life. 

 

For more information take a look at the information on Radically Open DBT here.