The cross-sectional relationship between body dysmorphic disorder and perfectionism: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Mental Health Research

Background:

• Perfectionism is theoretically linked to body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) development and maintenance.
• A quantitative synthesis of the cross-sectional relationship between perfectionism and BDD symptom severity is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively synthesize the strength and consistency of the relationship between perfectionism and BDD symptom severity.
• To examine perfectionism dimensions, sample characteristics, and diagnostic subtypes in relation to BDD symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A random-effects meta-analysis of 34 studies with 13,107 participants.
• Inclusion criteria required validated instruments for assessing BDD symptoms and perfectionism.
• Partial correlations controlling for depression were analyzed.

Main Results:

• A moderate, significant correlation (r = .32) was found between BDD symptoms and perfectionism.
• The association was consistent across age, sample type, and gender, and comparable in muscle dysmorphia.
• Controlling for depression attenuated the relationship, suggesting shared symptomatology.

Conclusions:

• Perfectionistic concerns and strivings are relevant correlates of BDD-related distress.
• Perfectionism should be considered within transdiagnostic models of BDD.
• Significant heterogeneity and publication bias were noted, but findings were robust in sensitivity analyses.