OCD Traits, Perceived Stress and Quality of life among Pakistani Young Adults

Background: Obsessive-compulsive traits are increasingly prevalent among young adults and have been associated with impaired psychological well-being and reduced quality of life (QoL). Perceived stress is a potential mediator in this relationship, yet limited research exists exploring this pathway in the South Asian context. In Pakistan, where mental health stigma and lack of awareness prevail, understanding the psychological dynamics influencing QoL among youth is essential for developing culturally relevant interventions. Objective: The present study aimed to examine the mediating role of perceived stress in the relationship between obsessive-compulsive traits and quality of life among young Pakistani adults. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational design was employed, with purposive sampling used to recruit 195 participants aged 18–30 years from colleges and universities in Pakistan. Participants included men and women from diverse religious and employment backgrounds. Data were collected online via Google Forms using standardized instruments: the Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and the WHO Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS v27, and mediation was tested through Hayes' PROCESS macro (Model 4). Results: A significant positive correlation was found between OCD traits and perceived stress (r = .76, p < .01), while a significant negative correlation emerged between OCD traits and quality of life (r = –.28, p < .01). Mediation analysis confirmed that perceived stress significantly mediated the relationship between OCD traits and QoL (β = .32, 95% CI [.16, .47]). The model accounted for 57% variance in perceived stress and 8% in QoL. Conclusion: Findings indicate that perceived stress significantly mediates the negative impact of OCD traits on quality of life in young adults. These results underscore the importance of stress-targeted interventions in improving well-being among individuals with obsessive-compulsive tendencies in culturally relevant settings.