Investigating relationships between perfectionism, forms and functions of self-criticism, and sensitivity to put-down

This study explores the relationship between dimensions of perfectionism, forms and functions of self-criticism/reassurance, and how people attribute blame for external criticism. Previous research has linked perfectionism dimensions with self-criticism, but not investigated the different forms and functions of self-criticism. One hundred and twenty six participants took part in this study. Socially prescribed perfectionism was significantly correlated with all self-critical variables and depression. Other-oriented and self-oriented perfectionism were only associated with the self-correcting function of self-criticism. Blaming self for being criticised by others was associated with all forms and functions of self-criticism/reassurance and socially prescribed perfectionism. In contrast, blaming others for being criticised was negatively associated with the various forms and functions of self-criticism and socially prescribed perfectionism. When self-criticism was entered into a multiple regression the link between perfectionism and depression disappeared. Also when self-criticism is excluded, self-blame for being criticised becomes a predictor of depression but perfectionism does not. This study suggests that it may be self-critical elements associated with forms of perfectionism, and how individuals react to being criticised that is key to depressive symptoms.