Perfectionism and the Five-Factor Model of Personality: A Meta-Analytic Review. (November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smith, Martin M.; Sherry, Simon B.; Vidovic, Vanja; Saklofske, Donald H.; Stoeber, Joachim; Benoit, Aryn
• Is Part Of: Personality and social psychology review. Volume 23:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 367
• Page End: 390
• Publication Date: 2019-11
• Subjects: perfectionism -- personality -- five-factor model -- Big Five -- meta-analysis; Personality -- Periodicals; Social psychology -- Periodicals; 155.05
• DOI: 10.1177/1088868318814973
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1088-8683

Abstract

Over 25 years of research suggests an important link between perfectionism and personality traits included in the five-factor model (FFM). However, inconsistent findings, underpowered studies, and a plethora of perfectionism scales have obscured understanding of how perfectionism fits within the FFM. We addressed these limitations by conducting the first meta-analytic review of the relationships between perfectionism dimensions and FFM traits ( k = 77, N = 24, 789). Meta-analysis with random effects revealed perfectionistic concerns (socially prescribed perfectionism, concern over mistakes, doubts about actions, and discrepancy) were characterized by neuroticism (r c + = .50), low agreeableness (r c + = −.26), and low extraversion (r c + = −.24); perfectionistic strivings (self-oriented perfectionism, personal standards, and high standards) were characterized by conscientiousness (r c + = .44). Additionally, several perfectionism–FFM relationships were moderated by gender, age, and the perfectionism subscale used. Findings complement theory suggesting that perfectionism has neurotic and non-neurotic dimensions. Results also underscore that the (mal)adaptiveness of perfectionistic strivings hinges on instrumentation.