Journal article
The relationship of social support and scrupulosity: Understanding the role of shame
Spirituality in clinical practice (Washington, D.C.), Vol.13(1), pp.84-96
03/2026
DOI: 10.1037/scp0000405
Abstract
Obsessive–compulsive disorder is often accompanied by shame, which can hinder disclosure and treatment. This is true for scrupulosity, a subtype of obsessive–compulsive disorder involving religious obsessions and compulsions, which affects 25% of those with obsessive–compulsive disorder, with 8% citing it as their primary concern. Treating scrupulosity is complex due to its varied manifestations, religious influences, and associated shame. Social support is linked to improved mental health and reduced shame, yet its role in scrupulosity remains unclear. This study examined how social support relates to scrupulosity through its impact on shame. Using a cross-sectional design, we collected online survey data from 355 religious individuals. Results of a mediation analysis indicated that social support is indirectly related to lower scrupulosity through lower levels of shame. Findings suggest that utilizing social support in the treatment of scrupulosity may be indirectly beneficial if it lowers shame. Clinicians should assess shame and consider how and when it is appropriate to incorporate social support into treatment.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- The relationship of social support and scrupulosity: Understanding the role of shame
- Creators
- Benson R. BunkerStacey E. McElroy-Heltzel
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- Spirituality in clinical practice (Washington, D.C.), Vol.13(1), pp.84-96
- DOI
- 10.1037/scp0000405
- ISSN
- 2326-4500
- eISSN
- 2326-4519
- Publisher
- American Psychological Association
- Language
- English
- Electronic publication date
- 10/23/2025
- Date published
- 03/2026
- Academic Unit
- Psychological and Quantitative Foundations
- Record Identifier
- 9985019140702771
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