Making the grade: the behavioural consequences of perfectionism in the classroom

The objective of this study was to examine the behavioural correlates of perfectionism in a real world achievement task and to assess whether perfectionism is associated with self regulation strategies, attributions, and behaviour that is self-defeating. We also examined the predictive validity of t...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Personality and individual differences 2003-07, Vol.35 (1), p.163-178
Main Authors: Bieling, Peter J, Israeli, Anne, Smith, Jennifer, Antony, Martin M
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism
Biological and medical sciences
Classroom behaviour
Cognitive-Emotional aspects
Educational psychology
Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology
Perfectionism
Psychology. Psychoanalysis. Psychiatry
Psychology. Psychophysiology
Psychopathology
Pupil and student. Academic achievement and failure
Self regulation
Selfdefeating behaviour
Selfregulation
Standard setting
Students
Universities
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Summary:The objective of this study was to examine the behavioural correlates of perfectionism in a real world achievement task and to assess whether perfectionism is associated with self regulation strategies, attributions, and behaviour that is self-defeating. We also examined the predictive validity of the distinction between adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism on our dependent measures. A total of 198 students completed questionnaires about perfectionism, their standards, attributions, and behaviours at two time points; one week before their mid-term exam, and one week after receiving their grades. Data were analyzed with a combination of correlational and between group statistics. Overall, individuals high in perfectionism set a higher standard for the exam, were more likely to fall short of their goals, and experienced more negative affect about the exam, whether they had met their goal or not. There were some important differences between adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism; adaptive perfectionism was associated with fewer negative consequences for this achievement situation. Over time, the behaviours and cognitive-emotional responses related to perfectionism could lead to significant distress and this research suggests an important potential pathway from perfectionism to psychopathology.
ISSN:0191-8869
1873-3549
DOI:10.1016/S0191-8869(02)00173-3