A multidimensional approach to perfectionism and self-compassion

ABSTRACT

Research suggests that maladaptive perfectionism impedes the development of self-compassion, a self-attitude with numerous biopsychosocial benefits. The precise relationship between these constructs remains unclear, but accurate modeling could foster an understanding of the barriers that perfectionists experience to self-compassion, enabling focused interventions to be developed. This study used structural equation modeling within a convenience-sampled, general, population (n = 428; $\bar{X}$ age = 34.3 yrs, SD = 12.1) to analyze how multidimensional perfectionism related to multidimensional self-compassion. The maladaptive perfectionism dimensions (Concern over Mistakes; Discrepancy) predicted lower levels of self-compassion and its positive dimensions (Self-kindness; Common Humanity; Mindfulness). Adaptive perfectionism also predicted higher levels of Self-judgment. Findings were discussed theoretically, and their utility for developing population-tailored, dual-focused, interventions aimed at reducing perfectionism and increasing self-compassion was explored.

KEYWORDS:

• Perfectionism
• self-compassion
• structural equation modeling
• SEM
• latent variable modeling

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank all the participants who took the time to share their experiences of perfectionism and self-compassion – without them, this research could not have taken place. May you be safe. May you be peaceful. May you be kind to yourself. May you give yourself the compassion that you need.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Data availability

The data that support the findings of this study are openly available via the Open Science Framework at http://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/N2FHU

Supplememtary material

Supplemental data for this article can be accessed here.

Additional information

Funding

The authors received no financial support for the research or for their authorship of this paper.