The effect of cognitive behavioral training (CBT) on perfectionism in a non-clinical Population

The present study examined the effect of cognitive behavioral training (CBT) in reducing levels of perfectionism and its dimensions in a non-clinical sample. The participants were selected and placed randomly in case and control groups with pre, post, and follow up tests. The population includes all master students in Al-Zahra university that at first, 167 master students were selected by means of cluster sampling and filled out Frost Multi Perfectionism Scale. Thirty  students who got the highest scores were selected and randomly divided into two groups (15 experimental and 15 in control groups). The experimental group participated in workshop series held over 6 weeks. At the end of training, both experimental and control groups had a test again. Data were analyzed by using t test and repeated measures test. The results showed that the cognitive behavioral intervention caused significant reduction (p<0.01) in total perfectionism, concern over mistakes, personal standards, and doubting of action. These results were persistent in a measurement taken one month later. Based upon the results of current research, cognitive behavioral training (CBT) can be used as an efficient way to improve perfectionism in non-clinical population.