Perfectionism and Psychopathology

Dr. Hewitt’s research focuses on perfectionism as a vulnerability factor in suicide, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. This includes research into the complex nature of perfectionism, how perfectionism actually creates serious problems for people, and, finally, how best to assess and treat individuals who suffer from the negative effects of excessive perfectionism.

Selection of Related Articles:

  • Hewitt, P. L., Caelian, C. F., Chen, C., & Flett, G. L. (2014). Perfectionism, stress, daily hassles, hopelessness, and suicide potential in depressed psychiatric adolescents. Journal Of Psychopathology And Behavioral Assessment. doi:10.1007/s10862-014-9427-0
  • Hewitt, P. L., & Flett, G. L. (2002). Perfectionism and stress processes in psychopathology. In G. L. Flett, P. L. Hewitt (Eds.), Perfectionism: Theory, research, and treatment (pp. 255-284). Washington, DC, US: American Psychological Association. doi:10.1037/10458-011
  • Cockell, S. J., Hewitt, P. L., Seal, B., Sherry, S., Goldner, E. M., Flett, G. L., & Remick, R. A. (2002). Trait and self-presentational dimensions of perfectionism among women with anorexia nervosa. Cognitive Therapy And Research, 26(6), 745-758. doi:10.1023/A:1021237416366
  • Hewitt, P. L., & Flett, G. L. (1991). Perfectionism in the self and social contexts: Conceptualization, assessment, and association with psychopathology. Journal Of Personality And Social Psychology60(3), 456-470. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.60.3.456