Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Hewitt and Flett's Socially Prescribed Perfectionism in University Students Prior to the Onset of Depression

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in the Treatment of Hewitt and Flett's Socially Prescribed Perfectionism in University Students Prior to the Onset of Depression

Perfectionism is a multidimensional construct which has been positively correlated with a rising trend in psychopathology. Previous literature proposed that individualism, high parental standards, and neoliberalism’s meritocratic values contribute to the rise of perfectionism. The present study examined the mediational relationship between perfectionism and various aspects of psychopathology and the outcome of cognitive behavioral therapy in the treatment of perfectionism. The research found that unrealistic goal setting, self-criticism, avoidant coping, and frequently perceived failures cause perfectionistic concerns to become maladaptive. Although there is validity to each model of perfectionism, Hewitt and Flett’s socially prescribed perfectionism is centralized around interpersonal expectations imposed on oneself, which supports the role of societal values as a predictor of perfectionistic behaviors. Due to the increased risk of depression associated with socially prescribed perfectionism, this study proposes that a treatment plan which utilizes techniques of cognitive behavioral therapy would be beneficial in preventing the onset of depression in socially prescribed perfectionistic college students.