The Relationship Between Multidimensional Perfectionism and Empathy

This study examined relationships between multidimensional perfectionism and empathy in 237 Japanese adults using an online survey. Correlation and partial correlation analyses were conducted using the Japanese Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale and the Multidimensional Empathy Scale. Self-oriented perfectionism was positively associated with both cognitive and emotional empathy, indicating relatively adaptive interpersonal tendencies. Other-oriented perfectionism was negatively associated with perspective taking after controlling for other perfectionism dimensions. Socially prescribed perfectionism was positively associated only with susceptibility to others’ influence. These findings suggest dimension-specific associations between perfectionism and the multidimensional structure of empathy.