Perfectionism in eating disorders: Temperament or character? Does perfectionism improve on treatment outcome?

Abstract

IntroductionPerfectionism is considered a risk factor and is very close related to Eating Disorders (EDs). It estimates heritability of 29-42%. However, it has also been related to psychosocial factors such as the insecure attachment style.ObjectivesTo study the relationship of perfectionism with personality dimensions, its likelihood of improvement and its treatment.AimsTo analyze if Perfectionism is associated with dimensions of Temperament or dimensions of Character and therefore more psychosocial.MethodsParticipants were 151 female outpatients who consecutively started treatment at the Eating Disorders Unit (Ciudad Real University General Hospital). Personality was assessed by using the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). Perfectionism was assessed by using the Edinburg Investigatory Test (EDI-2) subscale (t0). One year later, patients were re-assessed with the EDI-2 (t1).ResultsThe scores on Perfectionism significantly improved from t0 to t1, (repeated measures ANOVA, F = 6.6, P < 0.01). At baseline, Perfectionism was related to any of the Temperament dimensions, but the Character variable Purposefulness (SD2) (β = .25 95% CI .17, 98), 2.7% of variance). Responsibility (SD1) and Self-Aceptance (SD4) were inversely associated with Perfectionism. At t1, Responsibility still was a protective factor for Perfectionism, regardless the effect of Perfectionism at t0.ConclusionsPerfectionism is also related to psychosocial and developmental factors. People with an internal locus of control tend to take responsibility for their own actions and are resourceful in solving problems. Thus, Self-directedness, mainly Responsibility for their own actions, is a protective factor for Perfectionism in EDs.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.