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The factor structure, psychometric properties and clinical utility of the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (FMPS) developed by Frost, Martin, Lahart, and Rosenblate (1990) is investigated for the first time on the basis of an Australian sample. Consistent with recent studies, four dimensions instead of the original six emerged as a result of exploratory factor analysis. Retaining 24 items out of the original 35 items refined the scale. This brief version is referred to as FMPS-24 item. Further investigations resulted in a shortened form of the scale (FMPS-R), which highlighted the presence of two purer dimensions, functional and dysfunctional perfectionism, using a limited number of items. The overall 24-item measure, its four subscales and the functional and dysfunctional dimensions of perfectionism had high internal consistency and correlated with other established measures of perfectionism, anxiety and depression. In general, the FMPS-24 item and FMPS-R are psychometrically sound instruments of potential value and utility in studying the construct of perfectionism and its links with personality and psychopathology.

Past research has demonstrated that anxiety disorders represent a significant mental health concern. A review of the literature in the area indicates that there is limited information regarding gender differences on the basis of cognitions in clinical or nonclinical samples. The current investigation sought to determine whether any observable gender differences existed in the expression of symptoms, cognitions, and anxiety sensitivity for a nonclinical sample of 48 males and 49 females. Multivariate analyses of variance revealed support for gender differences in the expression of physiological hyperarousal, catastrophic cognitions and a general level of anxiety sensitivity in a nonclinical population. The strengths, limitations, and directions for future research are discussed.

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