Treatment of Limerence Using a Cognitive Behavioral Approach: A Case Study

Abstract

Limerence is an underresearched condition of unknown prevalence that causes significant loss of productivity and emotional distress to sufferers. Individuals with limerence display an obsessive attachment to a particular person or “limerent object” (LO) that interferes with daily functioning and the formation and maintenance of healthy relationships. The current study proposes a conceptualization of the condition in a 28-year-old individual and describes a treatment approach using cognitive-behavioral techniques, most notably exposure responsive prevention as used in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. The number and type of compulsive rituals performed by the treated individual were notably decreased at 9-month follow-up after treatment, and a subjective assessment of dysfunctional thought patterns related to the LO also suggested improvement. A novel screening instrument is presented, as validated screening instruments do not yet exist. Implications for diagnosis and treatment are discussed.