Understanding Perfectionism

Perfectionism is increasingly recognized as a detrimental trait that manifests in high expectations and self-criticism. Social psychologist Thomas Curran discusses how perfectionism is tied to anxiety and self-sabotage, particularly in high-pressure environments such as personal and professional settings. He emphasizes that rather than being a source of strength, perfectionism often leads to significant mental health struggles, pushing individuals into cycles of anxiety, burnout, and self-doubt. The understanding that perfectionism creates a facade of control, while actually causing deeper issues, is essential for recognizing its harmful impacts.