Explanatory Feedback Interventions for Perfectionism

This trial tests two feedback methods to assist university students struggling with perfectionism, which often results in stress, anxiety, and depression. The goal is to determine if these methods can enhance well-being by increasing positive traits like mindfulness and self-compassion while reducing negative feelings. Participants will be divided into groups to receive different combinations of feedback or no feedback. Individuals who frequently feel overly self-critical and experience mood fluctuations might be well-suited for this study. As an unphased trial, this study provides participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could improve mental health support for students.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on psychological interventions rather than medication changes.

In earlier studies, researchers tested the PCPM-EFI treatment with 176 university students. Participants found it easy to understand and helpful. They experienced less depression and anxiety and felt more confident in managing stress. No major negative effects were reported, indicating it is well-tolerated.

For the PERPM-EFI, a small study with 12 students showed similar positive effects. Students reported feeling more mindful and self-aware, with fewer negative emotions. Again, no significant adverse effects were noted.

Researchers are excited about the Explanatory Feedback Interventions for Perfectionism because they offer a unique approach to tackling perfectionism by focusing on cognitive and emotional processes. Unlike traditional methods that might emphasize behavioral changes or general cognitive therapies, these interventions target specific coping and emotion regulation processes. The Perfectionism and Coping Processes Model (PCPM-EFI) delves into how individuals respond to perfectionistic thoughts, while the Perfectionism and Emotion Regulation Processes Model (PERPM-EFI) addresses how emotions are managed in the context of perfectionism. By providing tailored feedback based on these models, the interventions aim to offer a more personalized and potentially more effective way to manage and reduce perfectionism.

This trial will compare the effectiveness of different explanatory feedback interventions for perfectionism. Initial findings suggest that both the PCPM-EFI and PERPM-EFI methods effectively assist individuals struggling with perfectionism. In a previous study, participants who received the PCPM-EFI felt more empowered and better able to handle stress, experiencing fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety. Meanwhile, the PERPM-EFI pilot study, although small, showed that participants became more mindful and self-compassionate, feeling less depressed and anxious. In this trial, some participants will receive the PCPM-EFI, others the PERPM-EFI, and some both interventions combined, which may offer even greater benefits by improving emotional well-being and coping skills. These findings highlight the potential of these feedback strategies to help those dealing with challenges related to perfectionism.¹²³⁵⁶