Perfectionism and chronic insomnia

The relationship between chronic insomnia and perfectionism was investigated using a sample of 32 adults with chronic insomnia and 26 healthy controls. Different aspects of perfectionism were measured using two Multi-Dimensional Perfectionism Scales [Frost RO, Marten P, Lahart C, Rosenblate R. The dimensions of perfectionism. Cognit Ther Res 1990;14(5):449-468; Hewitt PL, Flett GL. The Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale: development and validation. Can Psychol 1989;30:339; Hewitt PL, Flett GL. Perfectionism in the self and social contexts: conceptualization, assessment, and association with psychopathology. J Pers Soc Psychol 1991;60:456-470.]. Using a univariate approach, results indicated that those with chronic insomnia were more likely to endorse features of "maladaptive" perfectionism relative to healthy controls. Further, those with chronic insomnia were more likely to report doubts about action, frequent parental criticism, and concern over mistakes. Although those with chronic insomnia were found to be more perfectionistic in these areas, only perception of heightened parental criticism was associated with the reporting of delayed sleep-onset latency. No other aspect of perfectionism was associated with sleep-onset latency, total sleep time, or sleep quality. Implications for theories of the development of insomnia are discussed.