Abstract

Perfectionism is a personality construct argued to be widespread with the potential
for incapacitation (Pacht, 1984). It has been linked with a host of psychological
difficulties impacting on social and occupational problems as well as physical and
mental health. Interest in multi-dimensional perfectionism is growing and the search
to uncover the domains within perfectionism which are adaptive, and should be
nurtured, or maladaptive, and requiring intervention, remains ongoing. Perfectionism
is considered transdiagnostic and targeting this construct may lead to symptom
reduction across a range of other difficulties (Howell, et al., 2016). Cognitive
Behavioural Therapies (CBT) are the current focus of interventions for perfectionism.
Research has indicated some success in managing perfectionistic traits through CBT
techniques, however, there are limitations to these studies.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a third wave CBT approach, focuses
on altering the function of thought processes and changing the relationship with
private events rather than trying to change the event itself (Guarna, 2009). This
approach claims to be transdiagnostic and therefore may be an appropriate
alternative to traditional CBT techniques for perfectionism.
A multiple single case design was employed to examine the effect of a guided self
help ACT intervention on perfectionism across five replications using self report and
behavioural tasks as outcome measures. The effect of specific ACT processes was
examined.
Results were inconsistent across participants but some replication of effect was
found for improved psychological flexibility, perfectionism and distress. The findings
indicate that a guided self help ACT intervention could be an effective treatment for
perfectionism, as decreased perfectionism and decreased self reported distress
were found following the intervention. Further research is warranted to examine the
impact of this intervention further.