Perfectionism
Understanding Unhealthy Perfectionism in Your Patients
As medical professionals, you're likely familiar with the immense pressures many individuals face today. One insidious mindset that's increasingly prevalent and debilitating is unhealthy perfectionism. This isn't about striving for excellence; it's about setting unrealistic standards for oneself.
The Rise of Perfectionism in Australia
Disturbingly, this debilitating mindset has been steadily increasing in Australia. Research indicates a 30% rise in perfectionism amongst adolescents since 1989.¹ This trend highlights an urgent need for greater awareness and intervention within our communities.
Roots of Perfectionism
Both research and evidence-based practice point to a complex interplay of psychological, familial, and socio-cultural factors contributing to perfectionism. Socially prescribed perfectionism, where individuals feel external pressure to be perfect, is consistently linked with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation.
Interestingly, parental expectations often play a primary role in the development of perfectionism in young people. The most common dynamic involves parents who set unrealistically high standards and overly focus on achievement and results. However, it's not just about strict parenting; research also shows that parents with a "laissez-faire" approach can inadvertently foster perfectionism in their children. In such cases, children may take on too much responsibility and develop unrealistic expectations of themselves.²
Therapeutic Approaches
Given that perfectionism primarily revolves around unrealistic standards, successful therapeutic approaches must focus on a change of mindset. For young people, and where appropriate, their parents, the goal is to shift towards being engaged in tasks for their own sake, doing one's best, and cultivating self-compassion. Self-compassion is a crucial factor in reducing the psychological distress associated with perfectionism.³
In my experience, the most effective way to achieve this is by first understanding the young person's and parents' perspectives. Following this, I support the young person and their parent/s individually to adopt healthier mindsets and behaviours through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), with a strong emphasis on integrating self-compassion.
References
Where Does Unhealthy Perfectionism Come From? Psychology Today, March 2022.
Hibbard, R. David et al. Exploring the Development of Perfectionism: The Influence of Parenting Style and Gender. SOCIAL BEHAVIOR AND PERSONALITY, 2014, 42(2), 269-278.
Umandap, Jofel D. & Teh, Lota A. Self-Compassion as a Mediator Between Perfectionism and Personal Growth Initiative. Psychol Stud (July–September 2020) 65(3):227–238.