An investigation into the relationship between addiction severity, parental bonding, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and aggression in individuals with alcohol or psychoactive substance dependence

Sarıoğlu M., Akay O., CEBECİ F.

Current Psychology, vol.45, no.2, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 45 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s12144-025-08655-5
  • Journal Name: Current Psychology
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, IBZ Online, BIOSIS, Psycinfo
  • Keywords: Addiction severity, Aggression, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Parental bonding, Substance use disorder
  • Azerbaijan State University of Economics (UNEC) Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study investigates the associations between addiction severity, perceived parental bonding, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and aggression in individuals undergoing inpatient treatment for alcohol or psychoactive substance dependence. Using a correlational survey design, data were collected from 165 participants at a detoxification center in Istanbul. The results showed that obsessive-compulsive symptoms were negatively correlated with both aggression (r = –.263, p <.05) and addiction severity (r = –.229, p <.05). A significant positive relationship was found between parental overprotection—particularly paternal—and obsessive-compulsive symptoms (r =.250, p <.05). Multiple regression analyses revealed that addiction severity (β = 0.25, p <.05) and lower paternal care (β = –0.20, p <.05) significantly predicted higher aggression scores. Additionally, individuals with neglectful or affectionless-control paternal bonding types reported higher aggression levels compared to those with optimal bonding. These findings highlight the importance of early caregiving experiences and comorbid psychological traits in understanding addiction-related behavioral outcomes.