Perfectionism: 11 Studies Reveal Its Origins, Costs & How To Cope (P)

Perfectionism involves being highly self-critical, constantly striving to meet the standards set by others — typically parents or mentors — and doubting whether one's own efforts are ever good enough.

Unfortunately, striving to appear flawless and achieve perfection in everything can damage both mental and physical health.

Despite having higher IQs, perfectionists can suffer psychologically and physically because they are under continuous stress.

These 11 studies explore how the relentless pursuit of impossible standards often masks deep-seated anxieties -- and how perfectionists can cope with them.