Specific perfectionism components versus self-criticism in predicting maladjustment

The present study compared the relative predictive value of specific perfectionism components, as measured by the Hewitt and Flett (1991) Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale and the Frost, Marten, Lahart, and Rosenblate (1990) Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, with self-criticism assessed by the Depressive Experiences Questionnaire (Blatt, D’Afflitti, & Quinlan, 1976) in predicting maladjustment. University students (64 men; 99 women) completed questionnaires in a laboratory session and then for seven consecutive days. Results of hierarchical multiple regression analyses supported self-criticism as the most robust predictor of retrospective summary and aggregated daily measures of daily stress, avoidant coping, low perceived social support, negative affect, and low positive affect. Specific perfectionism components did not exhibit unique relations with maladjustment.