Perfectionism is a term that is commonly used to describe individuals who have exceedingly high standards and expectations for themselves. According to psychology, perfectionism is a personality trait characterized by a relentless pursuit of flawlessness and setting unrealistically high standards for oneself. This trait can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction, anxiety, and frustration when one falls short of their own expectations.

There are three main types of perfectionism that psychologists typically recognize: self-oriented perfectionism, other-oriented perfectionism, and socially prescribed perfectionism. Self-oriented perfectionism refers to the tendency to set impossibly high standards for oneself, while other-oriented perfectionism involves placing high expectations on others. Socially prescribed perfectionism, on the other hand, is when an individual believes that others have high expectations for them, leading to feelings of pressure and inadequacy.

Here are seven examples that illustrate what perfectionism looks like according to psychology:

1. Fear of Failure: Perfectionists often have an intense fear of failure, as they believe that any mistakes or shortcomings will reflect poorly on their abilities and character. This fear can be paralyzing, leading to procrastination or avoidance of tasks altogether.

2. All-or-Nothing Thinking: Perfectionists tend to see things in black and white terms, believing that they must either achieve perfection or fail entirely. They have difficulty accepting that mistakes are a normal part of the learning process.

3. Overemphasis on Control: Perfectionists have a strong desire to control every aspect of their lives, often feeling anxious or out of control when things do not go according to plan. This need for control can lead to obsessive behaviors and rigid thinking patterns.

4. Difficulty Accepting Criticism: Perfectionists have a hard time accepting criticism from others, as they view any feedback as a personal attack on their abilities. They may become defensive or dismissive when confronted with constructive criticism.

5. Constant Comparison: Perfectionists often compare themselves to others, measuring their own success and worth based on external standards. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem if they perceive others as being more successful or accomplished.

6. Unrealistic Expectations: Perfectionists set impossibly high standards for themselves, always striving for perfection in every aspect of their lives. This constant pursuit of perfection can be exhausting and unattainable, leading to feelings of frustration and disappointment.

7. Negative Self-Talk: Perfectionists are often their own harshest critics, engaging in negative self-talk and self-criticism when they perceive themselves as falling short of their own expectations. This negative self-talk can erode self-esteem and contribute to feelings of worthlessness.

In conclusion, perfectionism can have detrimental effects on one’s mental health and well-being. Recognizing and understanding the signs of perfectionism is essential in order to address and overcome this maladaptive characteristic. Seeking support from a mental health professional can help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and cultivate self-compassion in place of perfectionistic tendencies.