An Investigation of the Relationship Between Perfectionism and Self - Esteem in Pre-College Students

this study examines the relationship between perfec-tionism and self- esteem in a group of pre-college students. An equal number of male and female partici-pants (180 boys and girls) were asked to complete the Farsi version of the Positive and Negative Perfectionism Scale (FPANPS) and the CooperSmith Self-Esteem Inventory (CSEI). Results revealed that positive perfectionism and self-esteem were positively correlated whereas the correlation between negative perfectionism and self-esteem was found to be negative. It is concluded here that positive perfectionism increases the level of self-esteem through the enhancement of self competence and self-acceptance whereas negative perfectionism decreases the level of self-esteem through reducing self-competence and self-acceptance, as well as developing or intensifying psychological disorders such as depression, anxiety and personality or interpersonal problems.