Perfectionism

Perfectionism, in general terms, is defined as the tendency of an individual to set unrealistically high standards for themselves, exert intense effort to meet these standards, and evaluate their own behavior in an excessively critical manner. This concept has been addressed in psychological literature both as a personality trait and as specific behavioral and cognitive patterns. In early stages, perfectionism was viewed as an obsessive neurosis or a pathological condition; however, today it is examined as a multidimensional construct encompassing both positive and negative dimensions.

American social researcher Brené Brown has defined perfectionism from a unique perspective: according to her, perfectionism is “a self-destructive and addictive belief system” rooted in the idea that “If I look perfect and do everything perfectly, I can avoid or minimize painful feelings such as shame, judgment, and embarrassment.” Brown emphasizes that perfectionism differs from healthy achievement or self-improvement goals; she notes that its true motivation lies in gaining others’ approval, and thus it focuses on external perception control rather than internal satisfaction.

Dimensions and Types of Perfectionism

Perfectionism is not merely a unidimensional or pathological personality trait but is defined as a multidimensional and complex construct. In the literature, three primary dimensions are generally accepted:

• Self-Oriented Perfectionism: The individual sets high, often unattainable standards for themselves, criticizes themselves in cases of failure, and attributes failure to personal shortcomings.
• Other-Oriented Perfectionism: The individual imposes high standards on others, expects others to meet these standards, and views others’ failures as evidence of their inadequacy.
• Socially Prescribed Perfectionism: The individual strives to meet standards set by society, their environment, or specific social groups, carefully adhering to social expectations, and blames themselves when they fail to meet them.

Each of these dimensions is associated with distinct motivations and psychological outcomes. Moreover, perfectionism can manifest in positive (adaptive) and negative (dysfunctional) forms:

• Positive Perfectionism: Includes characteristics such as setting realistic and attainable goals, demonstrating flexibility in the face of failure, and practicing self-compassion. This type of perfectionism is linked to self-esteem, life satisfaction, psychological well-being, and effective coping skills.
• Negative Perfectionism: Involves setting unattainable and unrealistic goals, developing excessively critical and destructive attitudes toward failure, and leading to negative psychological outcomes such as intense anxiety, depression, and stress.

Perfectionism and Psychological Health

Research has demonstrated that the negative dimension of perfectionism has harmful effects on mental health. Negative perfectionism is associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, addictions, and feelings of paralysis in life (indecision, inactivity). Because perfectionist individuals often experience intense fear of failure, worry about making mistakes, and heightened sensitivity to criticism, they tend to withdraw from healthy competition and development in social and professional domains.

According to Brené Brown’s perspective, perfectionism functions as a defense mechanism aimed at avoiding shame and judgment, yet it ultimately deepens these very emotions. Although perfectionism may appear outwardly protective, it acts as a heavy burden that prevents individuals from expressing themselves openly and freely.

Perfectionism and Striving for Goals

Motivational processes related to perfectionism have been examined particularly in the context of how individuals set goals and exert effort toward achieving them. Goals are defined as cognitive representations of desired outcomes. Striving for goals involves continuously exerting effort to reach these objectives and persisting despite obstacles.

Research indicates significant relationships between different dimensions of perfectionism and striving for goals. In positive perfectionism, individuals set realistic goals, reassess and adapt their objectives when facing failure, remain flexible, and use their social skills to pursue their aims. In contrast, negative perfectionism is typically characterized by pursuing difficult and unrealistic goals and struggling to cope with failure.

Striving for goals has been found to have positive effects on mental health, serving as a protective factor against disorders such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, the process of goal setting and striving plays a beneficial role in recovery from physical illnesses.

Measurement Tools and Research Methods

One of the most widely used scales for measuring perfectionism is the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS) developed by Hewitt and Flett. This scale consists of three subscales: self-oriented perfectionism, other-oriented perfectionism, and socially prescribed perfectionism. Turkish-adapted versions of this scale have also yielded psychometrically reliable results.

Striving for goals is measured using a scale developed by Eryılmaz. This scale includes three subscales: goal commitment, giving up on goals, and continuing goal striving. These psychometrically robust instruments have been employed to examine the relationship between perfectionism and striving for goals.

Perfectionism is regarded in psychology as a multidimensional and complex construct. With both positive and negative aspects, it can reflect an individual’s personal goals as well as social expectations. However, negative perfectionism poses risks to mental health and can reduce an individual’s quality of life. The motivational nature of perfectionism, particularly its relationship with striving for goals, is an important area that must be considered in psychological support and intervention. Furthermore, the relationship between perfectionism and religiosity varies according to cultural and individual contexts.