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Perfectionism:
Perfectionism is
an attitude or standard that demands perfection in all things.
This can cause considerable distress and interference in
functioning, as extremely high standards are difficult or
impossible to maintain. Falling short of perfection results in
feelings of failure and even worthlessness, causing self-esteem to
suffer. Perfectionistic individuals often have problems with
anxiety and depression, due to the pressure they constantly place
upon themselves to excel. Eating disorders are also common in
perfectionists, especially in girls and women. Treatment involves
helping individuals recognize the link between their symptoms of
distress and the high standards they set for themselves. They are
also encouraged to re-evaluate how they judge their worthiness as
people and to question the assumption that they must be flawless
or else others will think badly of them or even reject them.
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