The role of clinical perfectionism and psychological flexibility in distress and wellbeing

Objectives: Clinical perfectionism, characterised by stringent standards and persistent striving, correlates with self-criticism and poor wellbeing. In this study we explored the mediating roles of psychological flexibility and inflexibility, and self-compassion, in the relationships of clinical perfectionism with distress, and clinical perfectionism and wellbeing. Methods: We used a cross-sectional correlational study design. A non-clinical sample of 210 Australian residents aged between 18 to 65 years old completed an online survey. Data were analysed using correlational, multiple regression, and parallel mediation analysis. Results: Heightened clinical perfectionism was associated with lower wellbeing and increased distress. Regression models revealed significant mediation by psychological inflexibility processes (self-as-content, experiential avoidance, cognitive fusion) and self-compassion. Cognitive fusion and inaction mediated clinical perfectionism-distress, while self-compassion and inaction mediated clinical perfectionism-psychological wellbeing. Conclusions: These findings support clinical perfectionism as a transdiagnostic predictor of distress and reduced wellbeing. Those with high clinical perfectionism tend to rigidly respond to perfectionistic thoughts, avoid uncomfortable emotions, and engage in value-disconnected inaction. Associations between psychological flexibility and inflexibility processes emphasise their multidimensional nature, distinct yet interrelated. Inaction emerges as a common process in clinical perfectionism-distress and clinical perfectionism-wellbeing, while cognitive fusion specifically influences distress, and limited self-compassion affects wellbeing.