Unmasking Obsessive Compulsive Behaviors in Leaders – A Dark Side of Leadership

Individuals in the workplace interact with peer constituents displaying various personality behaviors that influence productive workplace relationships. Sometimes, the darker side of leadership is masked and camouflages disturbing personality behaviors. Leaders are no exception to the array of personalities hindering productive follower relationships. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD) in leaders manifest themselves in a variety of ways and have the potential to deter satisfactory relationships with followers. Subordinates are subjected to higher instances of employee surveillance, matriculate attention to detail, extraordinary communication and feedback, repetitive reprimands, and fear tactics to motivate desired behavior. Although these practices are within management scope, manifestations of OCD leader tendencies and their effect on followership cannot be ignored. As the level of anxiety in Americans continues to increase, organizations may observe higher instances of OCD-related behaviors in leaders. This paper addresses OCD behaviors in leaders and its effect on followership and productivity.