PERFECTIONISM'S LINK TO ANXIETY, STRESS AND BOUNDARY ISSUES

Perfectionism has been consistently linked to increased anxiety in psychological research. Studies show that individuals with high levels of maladaptive perfectionism—characterized by excessive self-criticism, fear of failure, and an unattainable standard of success—are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing chronic anxiety.

One meta-analysis published in Behaviour Research and Therapy (2016) examined 284 studies and found a strong correlation between perfectionism and anxiety disorders, particularly generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies. The study highlighted that perfectionists are more likely to engage in rumination and worry, which fuels anxiety cycles.

Additionally, research in Personality and Social Psychology Review (2020) suggests that perfectionism creates a heightened sensitivity to mistakes and fear of negative evaluation, making individuals more vulnerable to stress and avoidance behaviors. The inability to meet unrealistic standards leads to self-doubt, procrastination, and an overactive stress response, reinforcing anxiety over time.

In short, perfectionism doesn’t just drive high achievement—it often traps individuals in a cycle of anxiety, self-criticism, and burnout, making it a key target for therapeutic intervention.