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Struggling with perfectionism: When good enough is not good enough
James Overholser1, Giancarlo Dimaggio2
1Department of Psychology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Journal of Clinical Psychology
|August 30, 2020
Summary
Perfectionism involves setting high standards and self-criticism, often leading to distress. Therapy helps individuals understand perfectionism as maladaptive coping to reduce unrealistic goals.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychotherapy
Background:
- Perfectionism is characterized by high self-standards and critical self-evaluation.
- It can lead to emotional distress and interpersonal conflict.
- Perfectionists often link self-worth to goal achievement, neglecting relationships and new experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the nature of perfectionism and its impact on individuals.
- To present various therapeutic approaches for addressing perfectionistic tendencies.
- To understand perfectionism as a maladaptive coping mechanism.
Main Methods:
- The papers in this issue present diverse therapeutic orientations.
- Treatment focuses on exploring clients' views of self and others.
- Understanding the role of perfectionism is key to treatment.
Main Results:
- Clients can discontinue striving for extreme goals and unrealistic standards.
- Therapy aims to reframe perfectionism from a maladaptive coping strategy.
- Recognizing the roots of perfectionism facilitates change.
Conclusions:
- Perfectionism can be effectively treated by addressing underlying self-perceptions.
- Therapeutic interventions can help individuals overcome maladaptive coping mechanisms.
- Understanding and reframing perfectionism leads to reduced distress and improved relationships.
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