obsessioners

Obsessioners is a term used informally to refer to individuals who exhibit persistent, intrusive preoccupations with a particular object, idea, person, or activity, to the extent that it shapes their thoughts and behaviors. It is not a formal clinical diagnosis, but is often used descriptively in media, sociology, and psychology to capture a pattern of intense focus.

In clinical practice, similar patterns may arise in obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders, or obsessive passion. Obsessions are intrusive thoughts; compulsions are actions performed to reduce distress.

Common domains for obsessioners include hobbies (collectors), romantic fixation, conspiracy theories, fan culture, or routines. Behaviors may include repetitive checking, mental rehearsals, excessive time investment, social withdrawal.

The concept interacts with research on passion: harmonious vs obsessive passion; obsessive passion linked to rigidity and conflict; may lead to distress or impairment, or when balanced with other life areas, energy can be high.

In social contexts, obsessioners can be subject to stigma; understanding requires nuance to distinguish healthy enthusiasm from harmful impairment.