Mini-Post: Types of Perfectionism

This blog is part of a four-part series on perfectionism. Make sure to check out the first post, An Imperfect Introduction to Perfectionism.

Did you know that there are actually different types of perfectionists? That’s right! Not all perfectionists are created alike. Researchers and clinicians have identified three primary ways in which perfectionism may manifest: self-oriented, other-oriented, and socially-prescribed perfectionism.

• Self-oriented perfectionism is what typically comes to mind when we think of perfectionism. Individuals in this category hold themselves to high standards and maintain ambitiously lofty goals. There is a constant and consistent striving to be better and better, yet the finish line always seems just out of reach. This form of perfectionism is associated with anxiety, depression, and suicidality.

• Other-oriented perfectionists project their standards onto other people; they maintain high expectations for others and may be critical of those who don’t meet these expectations. This can lead to frustration, hurt, and disappointment for both parties, resulting in strained relationships. Other-oriented perfectionists often experience repeated disappointments.

• Socially prescribed perfectionists set the bar high in the hopes of gaining others’ approval. In other words, if you’re a socially prescribed perfectionist, you believe that if you’re not perfect, others will not like you. Socially prescribed perfectionism is, not surprisingly, correlated with social anxiety. It’s not uncommon for socially prescribed perfectionists to go to great lengths to anticipate others’ needs, worry if others are upset with them, and identify as a social chameleon.