Yes, it can be effective, if it involves adaptive and flexible striving that can enable the individual to learn from set-backs, celebrate their achievements (however small), and not have it serve it as a means to determine self-worth.
However, problems can arise when individuals utilise perfectionistic striving as a means to prove themselves (to self and/or others) and/or to disprove a negative self-belief (e.g., “I’m not good enough unless…”). This type of perfectionism is often associated with anxiety, excessive worry, panic attacks, depression, low self-esteem, shame, and guilt.
At Walters Green Clinical Psychology Practice, all of our clinicians offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) that can assist individuals to ensure that their perfectionism works for them and not against them! Call us on 3870 8191 to make an appointment.
