The Impact of Maladaptive Perfectionism on the Emotional Well-being of Students in Creative Professions
Abstract
The study aims to investigate the relationship between maladaptive perfectionism and anxiety, aggression, self-esteem, and psychological well-being among students of creative professions at a Russian arts institute. The sample included 106 students (80% female, 20% male) aged 17–29 years. The following methods were used: the Garanyan-Kholmogorova Perfectionism Questionnaire, the Budassi Self-Esteem Scale, the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory, the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and a projective technique "Unfinished Sentences" adapted for the study. Results revealed a strong positive correlation between maladaptive perfectionism and anxiety (r = 0.62, p < 0.01), a moderate correlation with resentment (r = 0.45, p < 0.05), and a negative correlation with self-esteem (r = -0.51, p < 0.01). Women demonstrated higher levels of maladaptive perfectionism compared to men (68% vs. 42%). Recommendations include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) training and group mindfulness sessions to reduce anxiety and promote acceptance of imperfection.
About the Authors
O. A. Sukhanova
Voronezh State Medical University named after N.N.Burdenko
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Psychologist, Member of the Association of Psychologists, Psychotherapists, and Educators of the Central Black Earth Region; Student of Clinical Psychology
Voronezh
M. V. Larskikh
Voronezh Regional Clinical Psychoneurological Dispensary
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Head of the Pathopsychological Laboratory, Voronezh Regional Clinical Psychoneurological Dispensary, Chief External Specialist in Medical Psychology, Ministry of Health of the Voronezh Region
73 20th Anniversary of October St., Voronezh, 394071
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Review
For citations:
Sukhanova O.A., Larskikh M.V. The Impact of Maladaptive Perfectionism on the Emotional Well-being of Students in Creative Professions. Medical Psychology in Russia. 2025;17(1):27-32. (In Russ.)
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