Perfectionism is a complex, multi-dimensional problem. It is common, yet serious.

 

A perfectionist strives for superior achievement, seeks to be errorless and wants to avoid failure. In this struggle, a perfectionist fears rejection or loss of love by others and worries that any evaluation will be negative, resulting in various psychological maladies.

Three recurrent themes are associated with perfectionism:

1. Worries about errors or failure-Anxiety felt from being evaluated (either by oneself or another) can cause loss of objectivity, distorted self-image, faulty thinking or irrational beliefs.

 

2. Setting excessively high standards and expectations-These exaggerated measures of quality and effort are internalized, leading to a magnified need for achievement or success. Such assessment can also create avoidant behaviors, such as procrastination or disruption in task completion. Conflicts arise in goal-oriented environments, such as work or school, where praise and promotion for maintaining high standards are routine.

 

3. Social influences of others-One's perfection can stem from within oneself (also known as self-oriented or internalized). However, it can just as easily develop from close relationships, from one's family, teachers or peers (which is known as other-oriented or externalized.) It may also come from a more distant, impersonal source, such as societal authority, cultural beliefs or community pressure. This type of perfectionism is called socially prescribed.