The study conducted among ninth-graders in Swedish-speaking areas of Finland identified four perfectionistic profiles: moderately concerned, perfectionists, ambitious, and non-perfectionists. Perfectionism is characterized by high standards and striving for excellence, but also involves concerns over performance and dissatisfaction with achievements. Different individuals have varying emphasis on strivings and concerns, leading to different perfectionistic profiles. The study found that most ninth-graders fall into the moderately concerned profile, which represents a typical student. This profile displayed high emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and depressive symptoms compared to non-perfectionists or ambitious students.
The study showed that perfectionistic profiles are substantially stable, with around 80% of students maintaining the same profile over the school year. However, some significant transitions were observed, with students moving between profiles such as from moderately concerned to non-perfectionist or perfectionist, and from perfectionist to moderately concerned. These transitions were associated with well-being, with a transition from moderately concerned to perfectionist linked to higher exhaustion, and a transition to non-perfectionist linked to fewer anxiety and depressive symptoms.
The findings also revealed that both ambitious and perfectionist students were highly engaged and had high strivings. However, perfectionists displayed more burnout, anxiety, and depressive symptoms than ambitious students. The study highlighted the importance of understanding how students’ self-criticism and dissatisfaction with their achievements are linked to poorer well-being. High goals and engagement do not guarantee well-being if students are overly concerned about their performance. This indicates the negative impact of perfectionism on psychological well-being among young people.
The research is part of a longitudinal project led by Åbo Akademi University focusing on student well-being and learning in future society. The data used in the study were collected from ninth-grade students in lower secondary schools in Swedish-speaking areas of Finland during the 2019-2020 school year. The study aimed to investigate the various forms of perfectionism among young people and their associations with psychological well-being. The findings suggest that perfectionistic profiles, transitions between profiles, and their impact on well-being are important factors to consider in supporting young people’s mental health.
In conclusion, the study identified distinct perfectionistic profiles among ninth-graders, with most falling into the moderately concerned category. These profiles were associated with varying levels of emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, highlighting the impact of perfectionism on well-being. The study also emphasized the importance of understanding how students’ concerns about their performance are linked to their psychological health. By recognizing these associations, educators and professionals can better support young people in managing perfectionism and promoting positive mental health outcomes.
