Examining the Link Between Multidimensional Perfectionism and Depression: A Longitudinal Study of the Intervening Effects of Social Disconnection

Abstract

Introduction: The Perfectionism Social Disconnection Model (PSDM) posits that perfectionism confers risk for depression by promoting social disconnection. However, the specific indirect effect of social disconnection on the prospective relation of perfectionism dimensions with depression severity is not well understood. The aim of the current study was to provide the first comprehensive examination of the PSDM. Methods: A diverse community sample of 447 completed measures of trait perfectionism, perfectionistic self-presentation styles, and depressive symptoms at baseline. Six months later, participants completed measures of perfectionistic self-presentation styles, social disconnection, and depressive symptoms. Indirect effects models were analyzed to examine the impact of each facet of perfectionism on social disconnection and subsequent depression severity. Results: Consistent with the PSDM, all perfectionism traits and self-presentation styles resulted in greater depression severity via one or more facets of social disconnection, with social hopelessness and loneliness demonstrating the most widespread effects. Furthermore, perfectionistic self-presentation styles and social disconnection demonstrated sequential indirect effects on the relation of self-oriented and socially prescribed perfectionism with depressive symptoms at follow-up. Discussion: This study is the first to demonstrate the depressogenic effects of all perfectionism dimensions. Findings delineate the interpersonal mechanisms underlying the perfectionism-depression link.