A Dual Process Model of Perfectionism Based on Reinforcement Theory

Abstract

This article begins with a brief review of the current literature on the structure and measurement of perfectionism. It is concluded from this review that two major types can be distinguished, a normal/healthy form and a pathological form. These two forms are then defined as positive and negative perfectionism and related directly to Skinnerian concepts of positive and negative reinforcement. The positive/negative distinction is then further elaborated on in terms of approach/avoidance behavior, goal differences, self-concept involvement, emotional correlates, and the promoting environment. Finally, some of the more obvious theoretical and practical implications are briefly explored.

Physical appearance perfectionism explains variance in eating disorder symptoms above general perfectionism

“…The reason is that the PANPS has shown problems with content validity and factorial validity. As regards content validity, the PANPS was designed to capture positive and negative consequences of perfectionism (Terry-Short et al, 1995) following Slade and Owens' (1998) dual process model of perfectionism based on reinforcement theory.…”

“…Following the two-factor model of perfectionism (Stoeber & Otto, 2006), hope for perfection relates to the perfectionistic strivings aspects of physical appearance perfectionism whereas worry about imperfection relates to the perfectionistic concerns aspects. Furthermore, the two components can be understood from the perspective of Slade and Owens's (1998) dual model of perfectionism as approach-oriented (hope for perfection) versus avoidance-oriented (worry about imperfection).…”

Examination of the Relationship Between Perfectionism and Religiosity as Mediated by Psychological Inflexibility

“…Research in both fields has also identified the importance of accounting for adaptive versus maladaptive dimensions of the constructs (Allport & Ross, 1967;Slade & Owens, 1998). When the constructs are compared using adaptive and maladaptive subdimensions, the relationship between perfectionism and religiosity can best be described by accounting for the subdimensions of the construct.…”

“…This distinction has been supported by the multidimensional research and studies designed to test the positive and negative perfectionism theory. The Dual Process Model of Perfectionism made a distinction between the pursuit of success, excellence, approval, and satisfaction; and the avoidance of failure, mediocrity, disapproval, and dissatisfaction (Slade & Owens, 1998).…”

Actividades Multiaventura Para El Desarrollo Social Y Emocional en Población Infanto-Juvenil

“…Existen numerosas investigaciones que demuestran rasgos perfeccionistas desadaptativos vinculados al deporte (García-Fernández et al, 2016), contemplando que el miedo al fracaso crea en ellos una falta de diversión (Fiorese, Andrade y Lopes, 2013). Slade y Owens (1998) argumentaron que el Perfeccionismo Socialmente Prescrito (PSP) se relaciona con el miedo al fracaso, provocando la evitación de resultados negativos y el comportamiento basado en la motivación extrínseca. Sin embargo, a pesar de que el perfeccionismo ha sido considerado, generalmente, como un constructo desadaptativo, existen evidencias de algunas facetas que pueden llegar a considerarse positivas y gratas en algunos casos.…”