Multidimensional Perfectionism and Burnout

Summary & key facts

This meta-analysis combined 43 studies (total N = 9,838; 663 effect sizes) to examine links between different kinds of perfectionism and burnout. It found that perfectionistic strivings were either slightly linked to lower burnout or not linked, while perfectionistic concerns were linked to higher burnout. When the two types were separated statistically, “pure” strivings showed a clearer link with less burnout. Some results varied by setting, with worse patterns sometimes seen in work. The authors say more longitudinal work and studies of causes and interventions are needed.

Key facts:

• The analysis included 43 studies, 9,838 participants, and 663 effect sizes.
• Perfectionistic strivings had small negative or non-significant relationships with overall burnout and with burnout symptoms.
• Perfectionistic concerns showed medium-to-large positive relationships with overall burnout and medium positive relationships with burnout symptoms.
• After controlling for overlap between the two perfectionism dimensions, “pure” perfectionistic strivings showed notably larger negative relationships with burnout.
• In some cases the relationships differed by domain; perfectionistic strivings were sometimes less adaptive and perfectionistic concerns more maladaptive in the work domain.
• The authors recommend future research use longitudinal designs, study explanatory mechanisms, and develop interventions to reduce perfectionistic concerns–related burnout.

Topics

Perfectionism, Procrastination, Anxiety Studies Work-Family Balance Challenges Workaholism, burnout, and well-being

Categories

Clinical Psychology Psychology Social Sciences

Tags

Burnout Clinical psychology Emotional exhaustion Moderation Perfectionism (psychology) Psychiatry Psychological intervention Psychology Social psychology