Abstract
Objectives
Maladaptive perfectionism is associated with psychological distress and psychopathology. Medical students have been found to be particularly prone to maladaptive perfectionism. Recent research has indicated that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that targets unhealthy perfectionism leads to reductions in perfectionism and related distress. This preliminary investigation aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a CBT program directed at medical students who had significant levels of maladaptive perfectionism. The impact on associated psychological distress was also assessed.
Methods
The study used a case series methodology with an A–B design plus follow-up. First-year medical students who screened positive for maladaptive perfectionism and consented for the study (N = 4) were assessed at baseline to evaluate the levels of maladaptive perfectionism, anxiety, and depression. They participated in an eight-session CBT program for reducing maladaptive perfectionism after a waiting period. Assessments were repeated post CBT and at 3- and 6-month follow up periods.
Results
Results indicated positive and durable effects on maladaptive perfectionism among program participants.
Conclusion
The current research provides promising results for the use of CBT in at risk medical students with maladaptive perfectionism.
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The present study was approved by the St Louis University Institutional Review Board.
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On behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of interest.
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Chand, S.P., Chibnall, J.T. & Slavin, S.J. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Maladaptive Perfectionism in Medical Students: A Preliminary Investigation. Acad Psychiatry 42, 58–61 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40596-017-0708-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40596-017-0708-2