From the Fall 2017 issue of UNCG Research Magazine
It’s a common misconception: Perfectionists are typically viewed as hard-working, high-achieving, self-confident individuals. However, according to clinical psychology student Kelly Harper, perfectionism can come with costs.
Existing research highlights two types of perfectionists — adaptive and maladaptive. Adaptive perfectionists maintain high standards and feel pride in their accomplishments without berating themselves for mistakes. Maladaptive perfectionists employ similarly high expectations, but they focus on shortcomings and often feel anxious or unhappy with their performance.
Harper, whose findings have been featured in the online publication PsyPost, is examining the motivations behind maladaptive perfectionists’ behavior, as well as their interpersonal problems, through the UNCG Depression Treatment and Research Program. The program, directed by her advisor Dr. Kari Eddington, focuses on improving the lives of individuals living with depression via innovative research and clinical services.
“I really want to help perfectionists. They are the ones who typically come in for psychotherapy,” the doctoral student says. “They are at a higher risk for any number of psychological problems — depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and personality disorders.”
Harper, who won the UNCG Outstanding Thesis Award in 2016, says maladaptive perfectionists have the highest levels of depression, social difficulties, and stress. They’re self-critical and often pursue goals based on external pressures rather than internal motivations, leading them to feel less pride in their work.
