An investigation of self-structure and its role in mediating the relationship between multidimensional perfectionism and self-criticism

Objective Multidimensional perfectionism has pervasive implications for psychological adjustment. However, there is limited research on self-structure in perfectionism, despite self-process and self-content proposed as key components in perfectionism models. This study aimed to elucidate the associations between multidimensional perfectionism, self-structure (self-concept clarity, self-complexity, self-organisation), self-criticism, and self-esteem; as well as investigate self-structure as a mediator between multidimensional perfectionism and self-criticism, while controlling for self-esteem.Method University students and community participants (n = 240; 82.9% female, Mage = 21.28 years, SD = 6.05) completed self-report measures of multidimensional perfectionism, self-structure, self-criticism, and self-esteem online.Results Findings indicated that perfectionistic strivings and perfectionistic concerns had opposing relationships with self-concept clarity and self-esteem, but shared similar positive correlations with self-complexity and self-criticism. A hierarchical regression revealed that the perfectionism dimensions, self-concept clarity, and self-esteem were unique predictors of self-criticism. Self-concept clarity and self-complexity were found to mediate the relationship between perfectionistic concerns and self-criticism.Conclusions Our findings provide preliminary evidence on the associations between multidimensional perfectionism and self-structure, supporting the inclusion of self-structure to existing theoretical, research and treatment frameworks of perfectionism. Specifically, self-concept clarity may be vital in understanding the relationship between perfectionistic concerns and self-criticism. Clinical implications are discussed.