Reframing the Perfectionist's Catch-22 Dilemma: A Systems Thinking Approach

Abstract

Perfectionist tendencies present a particular challenge to gifted and talented children. The complexity of perfectionism, however, acts as an impediment to agreement on the nature of the phenomenon and on the development of strategies to ameliorate its effects. This article uses systems thinking to examine the dynamic complexity of perfectionism. These dynamics are explained as an attempt by the perfectionist to achieve cognitive consistency. The unrealistic world view of a perfectionist generates a catch-22 situation that makes change difficult. Rather than change their world view, perfectionists are more likely to attempt to change their behavior or their levels of self-esteem. Fundamental change requires a world view that balances performance and learning, and this involves changing views on performance and failure. The article discusses how such fundamental change might be achieved effectively.