Perfectionism profiles and school-related stress associations: Examining the 2 × 2 model of dispositional perfectionism in children

Abstract

The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship between multidimensional perfectionism and school-related stress sources and manifestations in child population using a person-centered approach. The sample consisted of 759 students aged between 8 and 12 years old (M = 9.68, SD = 1.24). The Child and Adolescent Perfectionism Scale and the School Situation Survey were employed. Four perfectionist profiles resulting from the combination between Socially Prescribed Perfectionism (SPP) and Self-Oriented Perfectionism (SOP) were obtained using the quick cluster analysis: Mixed Perfectionism, Pure Self-Oriented Perfectionism, Pure Socially Prescribed Perfectionism and Non-Perfectionism. The Mixed Perfectionism group was the most maladaptive profile, whereas Non-Perfectionism was the most adaptive in terms of stress sources and manifestations in school environments. Results were interpreted considering the model 2 × 2 of perfectionism. Moreover, possible explanations and implications of this study for Educational Psychology were discussed.