Trait perfectionism and perfectionistic self-presentation in personality pathology

Exploring the impact of stuttering simulation-based learning and personality traits on clinical self-efficacy and professional interest among speech-language pathology students

BACKGROUND

Research suggests that participating in a stuttering simulation-based learning (SBL) program could help speech-language pathology (SLP) students feel more at ease, less nervous and more capable while interacting with people who stutter. Personality traits may influence SLP students' self-efficacy beliefs as well as their level of interest in working with clients who stutter. In particular, we suggest that the combination of low neuroticism and high extraversion, previously linked with a more outgoing, emotionally stable and social personality, may enhance self-efficacy.

AIMS

To examine the impact of participating in a stuttering SBL program on clinical self-efficacy (CSE) in managing stuttering therapy among SLP students, as well as its influence on their interest in working with fluency disorders and their associations with personality dimensions. The study also evaluated satisfaction with the SBL experience.

METHODS & PROCEDURES

SLP students (n = 49) underwent a fluency disorders academic course, self-reported on CSE, and had an interest in working in the field of stuttering and NEO-Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). Post-stuttering SBL program participation, CSE and level of interest in practice of stuttering were reassessed. Satisfaction with the simulation was also gauged.

OUTCOMES & RESULTS

Students interested in working with fluency disorders scored lower in neuroticism and higher in extraversion than their uninterested counterparts. Before the SBL activity, interest ratings were negatively correlated with neuroticism and positively correlated with extraversion. Pre-SBL neuroticism was negatively correlated with CSE. Following the SBL activity, increased CSE and interest in working with fluency disorders were evident, indicating robust and medium effects of the simulation on those indices, respectively. Post-SBL neuroticism was also negatively correlated with CSE. Overall, participants reported high satisfaction with the SBL experience.

CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS

The study suggests SBL is an effective tool for enhancing motivation to work with fluency disorders. Consideration of personality traits and professional interests in designing educational interventions for SLP students, along with tailoring approaches to individual differences, may enhance learning outcomes. The study also highlights the need to differentiate between CSE and objectively assessed clinical competence and the fact that professional development is influenced by various factors. Nonetheless, the positive correlations between personality traits, CSE and satisfaction emphasize the potential of SBL programs in shaping not only clinical skills but also the attitudes and preferences of future SLPs.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

What is already known on this subject SLPs in the field of stuttering therapy reportedly experience low levels of comfort and professional confidence, possibly due to insufficient clinical experience. According to earlier research, taking part in SBL programs may elevate the CSE of SLP students and help them feel more confident about treating people with stuttering. What this study adds to the existing knowledge In addition to showing the beneficial effects of an SBL activity on SLP students' self-efficacy and interest in working in stuttering therapy, our research shows a significant relationship between personality traits and CSE. Specifically, the combination of high extraversion and low neuroticism was found to be associated with higher CSE and higher levels of satisfaction from the SBL. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? The study shows that SBL is an effective tool for enhancing motivation to work with fluency disorders. Overall, students who exhibit high extraversion and low neuroticism show higher levels of CSE, greater motivation in stuttering treatment, and higher levels of SBL stratification. Development of future SBL activities and other educational interventions should take into consideration such personality traits, to enhance learning outcomes.

Assessing and Evaluating the Perfectionism Social Disconnection Model: Social Support, Loneliness, and Distress Among Undergraduate, Law, and Medical Students

The current research evaluates the Perfectionism Social Disconnection Model (PSDM) by considering the links between measures of trait perfectionism and perfectionistic self-presentation and measures of social support, loneliness, and distress in cross-sectional research. A particular focus is on perfectionism and levels of social support as assessed by the Social Provisions Scale. The current study also uniquely evaluates levels of perfectionism and perfectionistic self-presentation in undergraduate students, medical students, and law students. The results across samples provided evidence that loneliness mediates the link between interpersonal perfectionism and distress in keeping with the predictions of the PSDM. Correlational results found robust links between loneliness and low levels of social support. Moreover, socially prescribed perfectionism and perfectionistic self-presentation were associated negatively with social support, and this was especially evident in terms of the facet tapping the nondisclosure of imperfections. Group comparisons of perfectionism yielded few significant differences in accordance with expectations. Levels of perfectionism tended to be lower among medical students. However, the links between perfectionism and distress were clearly evident among undergraduates, medical students, and law students, thus attesting to the vulnerability of perfectionistic students in general. Overall, the results further confirm the relevance of perfectionism in distress among students and applicability of the PSDM in various types of students.

Resident Aggression and Staff Burnout in Nursing Homes in Hong Kong

This study examined the effects of exposure to resident aggression, self-efficacy, neuroticism, and attitudes toward dementia on burnout among direct care workers (DCWs) in nursing homes. A convenience sample of 800 DCWs from 70 randomly selected nursing homes in Hong Kong were recruited and individually interviewed. DCWs reported past-month experiences of resident aggression, levels of burnout, self-efficacy, neuroticism, attitudes toward dementia, and other personal and facility characteristics. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that, while physical environment of the facilities, and demographic background and self-efficacy of DCWs were not significant contributing factors, DCWs' exposure to resident aggression, insufficient experience and training in dementia care, negative attitudes toward dementia, and neurotic personality were associated with higher levels of staff burnout. Findings point to the importance of mitigating resident aggression and adequately screen and train staff to optimize their empathy and competence in minimizing the risk of burnout.

Untangling the relationships between age, gender, type of sport, perfectionistic self-presentation and motivation on body satisfaction: a cross-sectional study on aesthetic and non-aesthetic female and male athletes aged 10 to 22 years

Objectives

To explore the relationships between age, gender, type of sport, perfectionistic self-presentation and motivation on body satisfaction among young athletes in one aesthetic sport (gymnastics) and one non-aesthetic sport (basketball). The study hypothesise that (1) age, gender and type of sport (aesthetic or non-aesthetic) will predict body satisfaction scores, (2) autonomous motivation will positively be related to body satisfaction and (3) perfectionistic self-presentation will negatively be related to body satisfaction.

Design

Cross-sectional.

Method

209 athletes (132 gymnasts and 77 basketball players) aged 10-22 (median=13) years were recruited. After data screening, 200 athletes were included in analyses (females: n=155; males: n=45). Participants completed an online survey, which assessed demographic information, athlete motivation (Behavioural Regulation in Sport Questionnaire), perfectionistic self-presentation (Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale-Junior Form) and body satisfaction (Body Appreciation Scale-2).

Results

Hierarchical multiple regression showed age, self-assigned gender, and two facets of perfectionistic self-presentation (ie, perfectionistic presentation and non-disclosure of imperfection) to predict reported levels of body satisfaction significantly. Subsequently, adding motivational variables did not improve the model. A moderation analysis showed that the relationship between non-disclosure of imperfection and body satisfaction was significantly moderated by gender.

Conclusions

Two facets of perfectionistic self-presentation were associated with reported body satisfaction. Additionally, the relationship between non-disclosure of imperfection and body satisfaction appears to differ between female and male athletes. Researchers should move beyond sport types and identify factors (eg, perfectionistic self-presentation) at the individual and environmental levels that can protect young athletes' body satisfaction.

A longitudinal study of perfectionism and orthorexia in exercisers

Research suggests that trait perfectionism and perfectionistic self-presentation are related to orthorexia - a pathological obsession with correct nutrition. However, no studies have examined these relationships over time or compared the influence of the two aspects of perfectionism on orthorexia. In the present study we sought to address these two issues. Gym members who engaged in high degrees of exercise were recruited via social media platforms. They completed an online questionnaire that included the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale-Short Form, Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale, and the Eating Habits Questionnaire on two occasions: 177 participants (Mean age = 31.6 years) initially completed the questionnaire and 82 completed the questionnaire six weeks later. A series of multiple regression analyses revealed that (i) trait perfectionism predicted an increase in orthorexia symptomatology over time with socially prescribed perfectionism and other-oriented perfectionism unique predictors of orthorexia, (ii) perfectionistic self-presentation predicted orthorexia over time with nondisplay of imperfection a unique predictor of orthorexia, and (iii) when considered alongside each other, only trait dimensions of perfectionism were unique predictors of orthorexia. The present study provides further evidence that perfectionism is related to orthorexia. In addition, the study also provides preliminary evidence that more engrained trait aspects of perfectionism are more predictive of orthorexia over time than the self-presentational aspects of perfectionism.

Academic Perfectionism, Psychological Well-Being, and Suicidal Ideation in College Students

High levels of perfectionism in college students can compromise their academic performance and psychological well-being. This study aims to analyze the implication of perfectionism in psychological well-being and suicidal ideation in the last year. A total of 1.287 students from different degrees reported their academic performance in the previous academic year and completed questionnaires on academic perfectionism, psychological well-being, and suicidal thoughts in the last year. In both men and women, academic perfectionism correlates positively with academic performance and negatively with the different dimensions of psychological well-being. Likewise, both the average grade in the previous year (β = 0.364) and the level of demand of the degree (β = -0.461) are mediating variables between perfectionism and psychological well-being. Furthermore, the interaction between perfectionism and academic performance is related positively to psychological well-being, but not to with suicidal ideation. So, the relation between suicidal ideation and perfectionism is positive (OR = 1.075), but this is negative with academic performance (OR = 0.900), although both variables show a mild predictive capacity. These findings suggest that the levels of perfectionism are associated differently with the mental health of students, since if perfectionism is effective (high academic performance), psychological well-being is high, although in our results, this interaction is not as important for suicidal thoughts.

Risk factors in body image dissatisfaction: gender, maladaptive perfectionism, and psychological wellbeing

Discontent with one's appearance (body image dissatisfaction) has become a global phenomenon, associated with the development of extreme behaviours in order to correct perceived body image problems. Much of the literature has focused on associated destructive behaviours that result from body image dissatisfaction; however, there has been a dearth of research examining risk factors for body image problems in adults. Thus, the current study aimed to investigate risk factors associated with adult body image problems, focusing on two variables highlighted in the literature (gender and maladaptive perfectionism). The current study (1) compared gender differences in body image dissatisfaction and (2) investigated psychological wellbeing as a mediator between maladaptive perfectionism and body image dissatisfaction. The sample included 139 Australian adults from universities (55.7%) and the community (44.3%). Participants completed demographic questions, the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, the Psychological Wellbeing questionnaire, the Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire, and Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale. In contrast to predictions, females had higher body area satisfaction and appearance evaluation scores. Furthermore, in line with the hypotheses, psychological wellbeing fully mediated the relationship between maladaptive perfectionism and poor body image. The findings suggest gender, maladaptive perfectionism, and psychological wellbeing may act as risk factors for body image dissatisfaction.

The Interactive Relationship Between Instructor Perceptions and Learner Personality on Surgical Skills Performance

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the association between learner personality and capacity to be trained (i.e., performance improvement) on a surgical task, and how instructor perceptions of the learners' capacity to be trained interact with learner personality and performance during training and feedback. There is meaningful heterogeneity in the degree of learner surgical skills acquisition despite receiving the same amount of training. While learner personality may independently contribute to skill acquisition, the instructor-learner feedback process is also important to consider. To better understand this interpersonal relationship, it is necessary to also consider instructor factors (i.e., perceptions), and how this may contribute to learner variability in skills training.

DESIGN

This exploratory study employed a prospective two-phase design. Medical and non-medical undergraduate students (N = 62) completed measures of personality and participated in two 20-minute training sessions with expert feedback 2 weeks apart, performing an end-to-side anastomosis on a low-fidelity model. Learner performance and instructors' perceptions of a learner's capacity to be trained were assessed.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty-two medical and non-medical undergraduate students.

RESULTS

There was a significant interaction between learner Extraversion and instructor's perceptions of learner capacity to be trained. Higher learner Extraversion was only associated with an increase in performance improvement for those who were considered trainable (OR = 4.83, p = 0.017). Post hoc analysis revealed a significant difference in the amount of feedback provided to participants who were considered trainable (M = 9.45) versus not trainable (M = 16.48).

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the importance of both individual learner factors and instructor perceptions on surgical skill acquisition.

Perfectionism unbound: An integrated individual and group intervention for those hiding imperfections

The tendency to hide and mask suffering and one's perceived imperfections is one of the biggest obstacles in treating those with prominent perfectionistic traits. In this single case, we present an integrative form of psychotherapy for patients with recurrent strategies aimed at neither displaying nor disclosing their perfectionism. Emily was a 26-year-old woman diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and reported a personality pathology as diagnosed through the Alternative Model of Personality Disorders. The intervention comprised of a 4-month individual therapy and 2-month group therapy. The former is based on Metacognitive Interpersonal Therapy protocol for personality disorders. The latter is a protocol that integrates the Dynamic Relational Treatment for Perfectionism and Compassion Focused Therapy. At the end of this integrative treatment, Emily remitted from Major Depressive Disorder and personality pathology. Further studies should confirm our promising results in larger samples.

Perfectionistic self-presentation and orthorexia in exercisers

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to provide the first examination of whether perfectionistic self-presentation-an interpersonal expression of perfectionism-is related to orthorexia.

METHODS

We recruited a sample of 150 exercisers (Mean age = 27.7 years). Participants completed the Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale and the ORTO-15 on a single occasion.

RESULTS

Two dimensions of perfectionistic self-presentation-perfectionistic self-promotion and nondisplay of imperfection-showed significant positive correlations with orthorexia. In addition, in multiple regression analyses controlling for the overlap between dimensions, perfectionistic self-promotion emerged as the strongest and only significant predictor of orthorexia.

CONCLUSION

Perfectionistic self-presentation is positively associated with orthorexia in exercisers. Perfectionistic self-promotion-a need to portray an image of perfection to others-is primarily responsible for this relationship.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Cross-sectional study, Level V.

Emotion Regulation Difficulties Mediate the Relationship between Neuroticism and Health-Risk Behaviours in Adolescents

Health-Risk-Behaviors (HRBs) are significant antecedent conditions of adolescents' poor health and mortality. Prevention of avoidable adverse health outcomes requires an in-depth understanding of the factors associated with such outcomes. Among other possible pathways, the 'Neuroticism- HRBs-adverse health' link has been supported in previous studies. However, more extensive exploration of this link is required to identify the underlying modifiable risk factors. In the present study, one such factor, namely, emotion regulation difficulties, was explored to see its mediating effect in the relationship between neuroticism and HRBs-the first two constructs of the mentioned link. In this quantitative study, a total of 759 adolescents belonging to the Indian state of Punjab (Males= 402; M(age)=16.08) provided relevant information on a set of standardized questionnaires. Mediation analysis supported the major hypothesis of the present study. The results suggest that emotion regulation difficulty may be a significant mediator in the neuroticism-HRBs link. One's difficulty in regulating emotions might be an underlying mechanism through which high neuroticism increases the probability of indulging in HRBs, resulting in adverse health outcomes. The study implies that the assessment of emotion regulation difficulties should be included in interventional programs aimed at achieving adolescents' wellbeing, and early intervention may avoid progression toward adverse health outcomes in adulthood.

Emotion regulation difficulties, perceived parenting and personality as predictors of health-risk behaviours among adolescents

Health-Risk Behaviours (HRBs) are significant antecedent conditions of adverse health outcomes among adolescents, and their prevention requires an in-depth understanding of associated factors. Like any other behaviour, HRBs may be an outcome of a complex interplay between personal and situational factors that determines our responses. Among other factors, emotional tendencies, specific behavioural patterns, and psychosocial environment may be the significant factors working at different hierarchical positions within a system and guiding human behaviours, including HRBs. Previous studies have explored the role of these specific factors in developing and maintaining HRBs, but mainly among the adult population, and no conclusive results could be observed regarding their contribution to HRBs in adolescents. The present study explored the predictability of adolescents' engagement in HRBs with regard to three representations of the mentioned factors, i.e., emotion regulation difficulties, perceived parenting practices and personality traits. A total of 723 (Males = 440) adolescents (Mage = 16.05, SD = 1.1) provided relevant information on the standardized questionnaires. Structural equation modelling was applied to test the stated hypotheses. Analysis revealed that the adolescents who reported more difficulty regulating one's emotions, perceived parenting practice as maladaptive, scored high on neuroticism and low on conscientiousness, showed more engagement in HRBs than their counterparts. Further, the findings indicated that emotion regulation difficulties and perceived parenting practices are stronger predictors of HRBs than personality traits. Interventional programs targeting HRBs among adolescents should address specific facets of emotional dysregulation and sensitise parents about their role in moderating adolescents' HRBs.

Perfectionism Classes and Aggression in Adolescents

Some of the components of perfectionism produce a variety of problems, such as interpersonal hypersensitivity and hostility, that may be associated with aggression behavior during adolescence. This study aims to identify classes of adolescents depending on their levels of Perfectionistic Strivings (PS) and Perfectionistic Concerns (PC) as well as to examine whether there are significant differences in the manifestations of the four components of aggression behavior (i.e., anger, hostility, physical aggression, and verbal aggression) between them. A total of 1,074 high school students from various educational centers participated in this study (M = 14.78, SD = 1.84). The Child-Adolescent Perfectionism Scale and the Aggression Questionnaire short form were used. The Latent Class Analysis identified three classes of adolescent perfectionism: (a) Non-Perfectionists (low PS and PC), (b) Maladaptive Perfectionists (high PS and PC), and (c) Adaptive Perfectionists (moderate PS and PC). Results revealed significant differences between classes regarding the different manifestations of aggression. Maladaptive Perfectionists and Adaptive Perfectionists reported, respectively, the highest and lowest levels of aggression behavior. This study assists in educational programs to prevent conflicts related to school violence through emotional adjustment.

"Perfect Leader, Perfect Leadership?" Linking Leaders' Perfectionism to Monitoring, Transformational, and Servant Leadership Behavior

Despite the growing interest in perfectionism and its many facets, there is a lack of research on this phenomenon in the context of leadership. Attending to this deficit, the present study is the first to investigate the relationship between the three facets of perfectionism (self-oriented, socially prescribed, and other-oriented perfectionism) and three types of self-rated leadership behavior. In Study 1 (N = 182), leaders’ perfectionism and its association to their organizational, goal-oriented leadership behavior—self-rated as transactional (management by exception) and transformational leadership—is explored. In Study 2 (N = 185), the relationship of leaders’ perfectionism to their servant leadership as a people-centered leadership behavior is investigated. In line with the perfectionism social disconnection model (PSDM), we assume other-oriented and socially prescribed perfectionism to be positively related to management by exception (i.e., monitoring behavior) and negatively related to transformational and servant leadership, whereas the opposite pattern is primarily predicted for self-oriented perfectionism. Our findings in Study 1 reveal a negative relationship between leaders’ self-oriented perfectionism as well as positive relationships to their other-oriented and socially prescribed perfectionism in management by exception, while no substantial correlations with transformational leadership have emerged. In Study 2, a negative association between other-oriented perfectionism and the forgiveness dimension of servant leadership is revealed, indicating a possible barrier to building interpersonal relationships of acceptance and trust. Additionally, self-oriented perfectionism has been proven to be a rather favorable trait in servant leadership.

Does physical appearance perfectionism predict disordered dieting?

Despite that disordered eating has been repeatedly associated with perfectionism, the results are inconsistent as to which exact dimensions of perfectionism it is related to. Moreover, the increasing evidence that perfectionism is best conceptualized as a domain-specific, as opposed to a global, trait contribute to the lack of clarity. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine which dimensions of global and physical appearance perfectionism statistically predict disordered dieting in a non-clinical adult female sample. In total 437 participants completed the Short Almost Perfect Scale, which distinguishes between adaptive and maladaptive perfectionism, the Physical Appearance Perfectionism Scale, which distinguishes between hope for perfection and worry about imperfection, and the Dieting subscale of the Eating Attitudes Test-26. A hierarchical regression analysis revealed that only maladaptive, as opposed to adaptive, global perfectionism statistically predicted disordered dieting. Furthermore, both dimensions of physical appearance perfectionism statistically predicted disordered dieting, although worry about imperfection, its maladaptive dimension, was the strongest statistical predictor. The present results demonstrate that worry about imperfection is an effective statistical predictor of disordered dieting among women, possibly serving as a starting point for further research investigating the utility of its incorporation in prevention and treatment protocols for disordered eating.

The relationship between perfectionism and eating-related symptoms in adolescents: A systematic review

The clinical significance of two major aspects of perfectionism, perfectionistic strivings (PS) and perfectionistic concerns (PC), in eating disorders (EDs) symptoms was well-established among adults. However, no systematic review has assessed evidence examining associations between both unidimensional and multidimensional perfectionism and EDs in early and middle adolescence. For this aim, three online databases (PsycINFO, Medline and PsycArticle) were searched for articles published until January 2019, and observational studies were considered. Study quality was systematically appraised, and results were summarized using a narrative synthesis approach. Fifty-one cross-sectional and 28 longitudinal studies were included. Most studies supported the relationship between perfectionism and EDs, with the majority adopting a unidimensional approach for assessing perfectionism. Among studies that employed multidimensional measures of perfectionism, the majority (n = 11) of evidence supported the relationship between eating symptoms and PC, while fewer (n = 5) studies provided significant unique associations with PS. These findings are consistent with the body of research suggesting the strength of the relationship between PC and EDs was greater than between PS and EDs. It was recommended that preventive interventions should be primarily focused on reducing self-critical perfectionism, since it resulted to be the most relevant perfectionistic dimension in the development of eating symptoms in adolescents.

Predicting Individual Preferences in Mindfulness Techniques Using Personality Traits

The growing popularity of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) has prompted exciting scientific research investigating their beneficial effects on well-being and health. Most mindfulness programs are provided as multi-faceted packages encompassing a set of different mindfulness techniques, each with distinct focus and mechanisms. However, this approach overlooks potential individual differences, which may arise in response to practicing various mindfulness techniques. The present study investigated preferences for four prototypical mindfulness techniques [focused attention (FA), open monitoring (OM), loving-kindness (LK), and body scan (BS)] and identified factors that may contribute to individual differences in these preferences. Participants without prior mindfulness experiences were exposed to each technique through audio-guided instructions and were asked to rank their preferences at the end of all practices. Results indicated that preferences for loving-kindness were predicted by empathy, and that females tended to prefer loving-kindness more than males. Conversely, preferences for open monitoring were predicted by nonreactivity and nonjudgment of present moment experiences. Additionally, higher state mindfulness was detected for individuals’ preferred technique relative to other alternatives. These findings suggest that individuals tend to prefer techniques compatible with their personalities, as the predictor variables encompass trait capacities specifically relevant to practicing these techniques. Together, our results suggest the possibility that assessing individual difference and then tailoring MBIs to individual needs could be a useful way to improve intervention effectiveness and subsequent outcomes.

Examining the Contribution of Perfectionistic Traits to the Construct Validity of the DSM-5 Alternative Model of Personality Disorder

Scholars of perfectionism have proposed significant modifications to DSM-5's alternative model of personality disorders (AMPD), such that (1) perfectionism be expanded beyond the inclusion of a singular trait-rigid perfectionism-and (2) perfectionistic traits be specified as trait descriptors of personality disorders (PDs) other than obsessive-compulsive PD. In this study, we evaluate these proposals by examining the degree to which (a) perfectionistic traits are already instantiated in Section II and Section III models of personality pathology; and (b) perfectionistic traits meaningfully augment the construct validity of AMPD PDs. We conducted these approaches in a large sample (N =3D 435) from an Iranian undergraduate population that is atypically found in the literature. Results showed that perfectionistic traits are already fairly well instantiated in Section III Criterion B. Perfectionistic traits minimally improved the construct validity of OCPD, but did not meaningfully do so for other PDs. Future investigation into the clinical utility of perfectionistic traits is needed.

Personality Predictors of Yips and Choking Susceptibility

The ability to perform under heightened levels of pressures is one of the largest discriminators of those who achieve success in competition and those who do not. There are several phenomena associated with breakdowns in an athlete's performance in a high-pressure environment, collectively known as paradoxical performances. The two most prevalent and researched forms of paradoxical performance are the yips and choking. The aim of the current study is to investigate a range of psychological traits (fear of negative evaluation, individual differences, anxiety sensitivity, self-consciousness, perfectionistic self-presentation, and perfectionism) and their ability to predict susceptibility to choking and the yips in an experienced athlete sample. 155 athletes (Golfers n = 86; Archers n = 69) completed six trait measures and a self-report measure of yips or choking experience. The prevalence rate for choking and yips in both archers and golfers was 67.7 and 39.4%, respectively. A 2 × 2 × 2 MANOVA and discriminant function analysis revealed that a combination of 11 variables correctly classified 71% of choking and non-choking participants. Furthermore, analysis confirmed that a combination of four variables correctly classified 69% of the yips and non-yips affected participants. In this first study to examine both paradoxical performances simultaneously, these findings revealed that for the yips, all predictors stemmed from social sources (i.e., perfectionistic self-presentation), whereas choking was associated with anxiety and perfectionism, as well as social traits. This important distinction identified here should now be tested to understand the role of these traits as development or consequential factors of choking and the yips.

Explanation of somatic symptoms by mental health and personality traits: application of Bayesian regularized quantile regression in a large population study

BACKGROUND

Somatic syndrome is one of the remarkably prevalent issues in primary health care and subspecialty settings. We aimed to elucidate multidimensional associations between somatic symptoms with major mental problems and personality traits in the framework of the quantile regression model with a Bayesian approach.

METHODS

A total of 4763 employees at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services in Isfahan province, Iran, filled out four validated questionnaires including Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), NEO Questionnaire, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and PHQ-15 for somatic symptom severity. In addition, Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) were determined using Rome IV criteria. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Bayesian regularized quantile regression with adaptive LASSO penalization were applied for reduced dimension of somatic symptoms and variable selection and parameter estimation, respectively.

RESULTS

The 25 major somatic symptoms were grouped into four factors including general, upper gastrointestinal, lower gastrointestinal and respiratory by EFA. Stress, depression, and anxiety had significant effects on all of the four extracted factors. The effect of anxiety in each four extracted factors was more than stress and depression. Neuroticism and agreeableness had significant effects on all of the four extracted factors, generally (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Given the high prevalence of somatic symptoms and psychosomatic complaints in correlation with the diverse range of mental co-morbidities, developing more detailed diagnostic tools and methods is crucial; nonetheless, it seems that providing better interdisciplinary approaches in general medical practice is groundwork.

What Lies Beyond the Superordinate Trait Perfectionism Factors? The Perfectionistic Self-Presentation and Perfectionism Cognitions Inventory Versus the Big Three Perfectionism Scale in Predicting Depression and Social Anxiety

Extreme perfectionism has been linked with distress and dysfunction. This association is reflected by the recent development of the Big Three Perfectionism Scale (BTPS), which has superordinate trait-based scales that assess 3 broad elements-rigid, self-critical, and narcissistic perfectionism. We examined psychometric features of the BTPS as well as the links between the BTPS and indexes of distress. A sample of 602 undergraduates completed the BTPS, the Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale, the Perfectionism Cognitions Inventory, and measures of social anxiety and depression. Support was obtained for the psychometric qualities of the BTPS. All 3 superordinate trait factors were associated with social anxiety and depression. Analyses also established that rigid perfectionism, self-critical perfectionism, and narcissistic perfectionism are associated with perfectionistic cognitions and perfectionistic self-presentation. In addition, the results of a series of regression analyses established that perfectionistic self-presentation and perfectionistic cognitions accounted for significant unique variance in distress beyond the variance attributable to rigid, narcissistic, and self-critical perfectionism. Overall, our results suggest that the BTPS has significant promise as a predictor of various forms of dysfunction, but the cognitive and self-presentational aspects of the perfectionism construct are also uniquely relevant and not redundant with the BTPS superordinate trait factors.

Perfectionism and the Five-Factor Model of Personality: A Meta-Analytic Review

Over 25 years of research suggests an important link between perfectionism and personality traits included in the five-factor model (FFM). However, inconsistent findings, underpowered studies, and a plethora of perfectionism scales have obscured understanding of how perfectionism fits within the FFM. We addressed these limitations by conducting the first meta-analytic review of the relationships between perfectionism dimensions and FFM traits (k = 77, N = 24,789). Meta-analysis with random effects revealed perfectionistic concerns (socially prescribed perfectionism, concern over mistakes, doubts about actions, and discrepancy) were characterized by neuroticism (rc+ = .50), low agreeableness (rc+ = -.26), and low extraversion (rc+ = -.24); perfectionistic strivings (self-oriented perfectionism, personal standards, and high standards) were characterized by conscientiousness (rc+ = .44). Additionally, several perfectionism-FFM relationships were moderated by gender, age, and the perfectionism subscale used. Findings complement theory suggesting that perfectionism has neurotic and non-neurotic dimensions. Results also underscore that the (mal)adaptiveness of perfectionistic strivings hinges on instrumentation.

Predictors of Posttraumatic Growth in Adults Bereaved by Suicide

Background: Although suicide loss has been associated with several negative outcomes, numerous studies have shown that loss survivors can experience posttraumatic growth (PTG) following the suicide loss of a significant other. However, few studies have explored the mechanisms of such growth. Aims: The aim of this study was to identify predictors of PTG among a sample of adult suicide loss survivors and to explore whether the amount of time since the suicide loss moderated the relation between self-reported coping and PTG. Method: Suicide-bereaved adults (n = 307) completed online questionnaires measuring personality, coping, help-seeking attitudes, social support, and PTG. Results: Hierarchical regression analyses showed five independent associations with PTG: time since loss, perceived closeness, help-seeking attitudes, social support, and problem-focused coping. Time since loss did not moderate the relation between any of the self-reported coping styles and PTG. Limitations: The limitations of this study include a cross-sectional design, potential selection bias, no comparison or control group, and unrepresentative sample demographics of suicide loss survivors. Conclusion: Problem-focused coping showed the strongest association with PTG, independent of time since loss, suggesting that this coping style may facilitate growth throughout the grief trajectory.

The problem of overcontrol: Perfectionism, emotional inhibition, and personality disorders

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Some individuals with Personality Disorders (PD), particularly of a non-Borderline type, present with difficulties relating to over-control of cognitions, emotion and behavior, perfectionistic traits, and impaired social interactions. The current study sought to evaluate the strength of association, and interactions of both emotional inhibition and perfectionism in PD's, after controlling for symptoms and interpersonal problems.

METHOD

We recruited a sample of 578 treatment seeking outpatients. Diagnosis of PD was made with the SCID-II. Individual's completed measures of perfectionism (Frost-MPS), Emotional Inhibition (EIS), Depression (BDI-II), Anxiety (STAI-Y), Global symptoms (SCL-90-R), and interpersonal problems (IIP-32).

RESULTS

Perfectionism was related to interpersonal problems, to the majority of PD symptomatology and to PD severity via number of SCID-II criteria met. Emotional inhibition was linked to symptoms and interpersonal problems as well as with avoidant, dependent, depressive and paranoid PDs; and with overall PD Severity. Inhibition and perfectionism were correlated with each other. Both variables predicted PD above and beyond other variables assessed. Mediation modeling demonstrated that the effect of emotional inhibition on PD severity was fully mediated by perfectionism and interpersonal problems.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychological mechanisms of overcontrol are a maintaining factor in many PDs. Both perfectionism and emotional inhibition impact on a broad range of PDs and there is an urgent need for research into these processes, and to adapt psychological interventions to consider these factors.

An Online Assessment of Personality, Psychological, and Sexuality Trait Variables Associated with Self-Reported Hypersexual Behavior

"Hypersexual" behavior represents a perceived inability to control one's sexual behavior. To investigate hypersexual behavior, an international sample of 510 self-identified heterosexual, bisexual, and homosexual men and women completed an anonymous online self-report questionnaire battery. In addition to age and sex (male), hypersexual behavior was related to higher scores on measures of sexual excitation, sexual inhibition due to the threat of performance failure, trait impulsivity, and both depressed mood and anxiety. In contrast, hypersexual behavior was related to lower scores on sexual inhibition due to the threat of performance consequences. Higher neuroticism and extraversion, as well as lower agreeableness and conscientiousness, also predicted hypersexual behavior. Interestingly, interactions among the variables assessed did not significantly predict hypersexual behavior, suggesting the possible existence of multiple and predominantly independent taxa for various persons reporting hypersexual behavior. Core personality features may also be present in persons with hypersexual behavior. Clinical implications and future research directions are discussed.

How personality, coping styles, and perceived closeness influence help-seeking attitudes in suicide-bereaved adults

This study examined the impact of personality, coping, and perceived closeness on help-seeking attitudes in suicide bereaved adults. Participants (n = 418; mean age = 49.50; 90% women, 89.7% Caucasian) completed measures of personality (neuroticism, extraversion, openness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness), coping, and attitudes toward seeking mental health services. Regression analyses revealed neuroticism as the strongest predictor of help-seeking attitudes. Relatively neurotic adult women bereaved by suicide may be at-risk for developing unhealthy coping styles, low stigma indifference, and more negative help-seeking attitudes.

Multidimensional Perfectionism and Burnout: A Meta-Analysis

A meta-analysis of research examining the relationships between multidimensional perfectionism and burnout is provided. In doing so, relationships before and after controlling for the relationship between dimensions of perfectionism were examined along with whether relationships were moderated by domain (work, sport, or education). A literature search yielded 43 studies (N = 9,838) and 663 effect sizes. Meta-analysis using random-effects models revealed that perfectionistic strivings had small negative or non-significant relationships with overall burnout and symptoms of burnout. By contrast, perfectionistic concerns displayed medium-to-large and medium positive relationships with overall burnout and symptoms of burnout. After controlling for the relationship between dimensions of perfectionism, "pure" perfectionistic strivings displayed notably larger negative relationships. In terms of moderation, in some cases, perfectionistic strivings were less adaptive and perfectionistic concerns more maladaptive in the work domain. Future research should examine explanatory mechanisms, adopt longitudinal designs, and develop interventions to reduce perfectionistic concerns fueled burnout.

The Downsides of Extreme Conscientiousness for Psychological Well-being: The Role of Obsessive Compulsive Tendencies

Although conscientiousness exhibits positive relations with psychological well-being, theoretical and empirical work suggests individuals can be too conscientious, resulting in obsessive-compulsiveness, and therein less positive individual outcomes. However, the potential for curvilinearity between conscientiousness and well-being has been underexplored. We measured 912 subjects on facets of conscientiousness, obsessive-compulsive personality, and well-being variables (life satisfaction, job satisfaction, self-esteem, positive affect, negative affect, work stress). Methods of scoring included traditional sum-scoring, traditional item response theory (IRT), and a relatively new IRT approach. Structural models were estimated to evaluate curvilinearity. Results confirmed the curvilinear relationship between conscientiousness and well-being, and demonstrated that differential facet-level relationships underlie weaker curvilinearity at the general trait level. Consistency was found in the strength of relation between conscientiousness facets with their obsessive-compulsive variants and their contribution to decreased well-being. The most common association was that higher standing on conscientiousness facets was positively related to negative affect. Findings support the idea that extreme standing on facets of conscientiousness more strongly linked to their obsessive-compulsive variants contributed to lower well-being, highlighting the importance of considering alternative functional representations of the relationship between personality and other constructs. Future work should seek to further clarify the link between conscientiousness and negative affect.

Perfectionism and interpersonal orientations in depression: an analysis of validation seeking and rejection sensitivity in a community sample of young adults

The current study was conducted to uniquely investigate the associations among trait perfectionism, perfectionistic self-presentation, validation seeking, rejection sensitivity, and depression in a community sample. The authors' primary purpose was to focus on interpersonal orientations as sources of vulnerability that could potentially account for when perfectionism is dysfunctional. A sample of 183 young adults from a community sample completed the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, the Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale, and measures of growth seeking, validation seeking, rejection sensitivity, and depressive symptoms. Analyses confirmed that validation seeking was associated positively with all of the perfectionism measures with particularly strong associations between validation seeking and perfectionistic self-presentation. As expected, socially prescribed perfectionism and perfectionistic self-presentation had positive associations with rejection sensitivity. Further analyses established that the associations between interpersonal perfectionism and depressive symptoms were mediated by validation seeking, and socially prescribed perfectionism interacted with high rejection sensitivity to predict higher depressive symptoms. Overall, findings indicate that perfectionists are ego-involved individuals who strive for perfection as a means of proving themselves, and they are hypersensitive to interpersonal cues indicating failure and lack of acceptance from others.