An etiological model of perfectionism.

Gayle K Maloney,Robert T Kane,Clare S Rees,Sarah J Egan,Jon D Elhai

doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0094757

Abstract

ObjectivePerfectionism has been recognized as a transdiagnostic factor that is relevant to anxiety disorders, eating disorders and depression. Despite the importance of perfectionism in psychopathology to date there has been no empirical test of an etiological model of perfectionism.MethodThe present study aimed to address the paucity of research on the etiology of perfectionism by developing and testing an etiological model using a sample of 311 clients seeking treatment.ResultsStructural equation modeling showed a direct relationship between high Parental Expectations and Criticism, and Perfectionism. There was also an indirect relationship between Parental Bonding and Perfectionism that was mediated by core schemas of disconnection and rejection. Finally, it was found that Neuroticism had both an indirect relationship, which was mediated by core schemas, and a direct relationship with perfectionism.ConclusionsThe study provided the first direct test of an etiological model of perfectionism to date. Clinical implications include investigating whether the inclusion of etiological factors in the understanding and treatment of perfectionism is effective.

Highlights

There is extensive evidence that perfectionism is elevated in anxiety disorders, eating disorders and depression [1]
While there have been models developed to explain the maintenance of clinical perfectionism [2,3], few researchers have developed models of etiology
The Young Schema Questionnaire (YSQ)-SF provides a measure of the schema domain of Disconnection and Rejection that is consistent with the underlying core schemas proposed in cognitive models; for example: [21] of Helplessness and Unlovability

Summary

Results

Structural equation modeling showed a direct relationship between high Parental Expectations and Criticism, and Perfectionism. There was an indirect relationship between Parental Bonding and Perfectionism that was mediated by core schemas of disconnection and rejection. It was found that Neuroticism had both an indirect relationship, which was mediated by core schemas, and a direct relationship with perfectionism

Introduction

Method

Discussion

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Conclusions