Perfectionism in Filipino university students

• Main Author: Salanga, Maria Guadalupe C.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2003
• Subjects: Perfectionism (Personality trait); College students—Psychology; Counseling; Educational Psychology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_masteral/3128; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=9966&context=etd_masteral
• Institution: De La Salle University

Quantitative and qualitative approaches were utilized in the exploration of the perfectionism construct in Filipino university students. The quantitative section of the study identified the central dimensions of perfectionism, and the relationship of perfectionism with personality factors (emotional stability and conscientiousness) and distress. The measure of perfectionism utilized was the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale. Emotional stability and conscientiousness were assessed by extracting subscales of indigenous personality measures that correspond with the two personality factors. The Beck Depression inventory was the distress measure utilized. The central features of perfectionism were the focus of the qualitative investigation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals who were self-confessed and/or nominated perfectionists (n=30). Perfectionists were identified through the self-selection-nomination process method incorporated in the quantitative component of the study. Quantitative results indicated that the overall student sample (n=108) emphasize order and orderliness, set high standards for performance and evaluation, and have a tendency to perceive that parents have high performance expectations. Perfectionism was revealed to be indicated by the propensity to be sensitive to criticism and be agitated in the event of tribulations, and have temperamental disposition. The tendency to be hesitant in decision making, and display irresponsible behavior in accomplishing assigned tasks were also indicative of perfectionism. Distress was revealed to result from maladaptive interpretation process adopted by the individual. Qualitative results indicated that the adaptive contribution of valued social relationships was important in the achievement strivings of perfectionists. The academic life domain was the area wherein these perfectionistic tendencies were most salient. Significant others played a significant role in the origin of and continued adherence to perfectionistic values and beliefs. Overall, the results underscore the significance and ubiquity of the interdependent nature of the self in the Philippine setting. The are discussed within the framework of salient collectivistic concepts.