Curtin University researchers are calling for volunteers for a study in clinical perfectionism.<\/p>\n
The study will investigate the effectiveness of two psychological treatments for clinical perfectionism, a condition characterised by a constant need to reach sometimes unattainably high standards.<\/p>\n
Clinical perfectionism is a psychological condition often accompanied by self-criticism, stress, exhaustion and feelings of worthlessness.<\/p>\n
According to Dr Sarah Egan, Senior Lecturer in the School of Psychology and Speech Pathology, clinical perfectionism can result when individuals allow their strive for perfection to become a problem.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeople with clinical perfectionism set their standards very high and often perceive themselves as not reaching those standards.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019re very self-critical and often set unrealistically high standards measured in absolutes \u2013 for instance, \u2018I have to get 90 in my exam and if I get 89 I\u2019m a complete failure.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n
According to Dr Egan, clinical perfectionism can lead to a range other psychological problems.<\/p>\n
\u201cStudies have found that high levels of perfectionism can result in people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression and eating disorders,\u201d Dr Egan said.<\/p>\n
\u201cTreating perfectionism may help to decrease these symptoms.\u201d<\/p>\n
The study will see participants treated through either face-to-face cognitive therapy or via a printed self-help version of the therapy. Some participants will receive treatment immediately, while others will be placed on an eight-week waiting list, after which they will receive one of the two treatments.<\/p>\n
Results will be recorded via questionnaires that record common measures of perfectionism; stress, anxiety, depression and eating concerns.<\/p>\n
Potential volunteers are encouraged to contact Kimberley Hoiles, research assistant at the School of Psychology and Speech Pathology on 9266 3436 or email kimberley.hoiles@postgrad.curtin.edu.au<\/a> .<\/p>\n Contact:<\/strong><\/p>\n Kristy Jones, Public Relations, Curtin University
\n<\/strong>Tel: 08 9266 1930, Mobile: 0402 517 300, Email: k.jones@curtin.edu.au<\/a><\/p>\n