Perfectionism, mattering, and depression: A mediational analysis

While past research has examined the association between perfectionism and low self-esteem, research has not explored the possible link between perfectionism and feelings of not mattering to others. The mattering construct and feelings of insignificance to others are relevant to an understanding of interpersonal pressures to be perfect. In the current study, a sample of 246 university students completed the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, the Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale, the Perfectionism Cognitions Inventory, and Scales tapping mattering and depressive symptoms. Correlational analyses confirmed that negative appraisals of mattering were associated with elevated levels of depressive symptoms, socially prescribed perfectionism, and perfectionistic self-presentation. Additional analyses found that mattering was a partial mediator of the link between interpersonal perfectionism and depression. Our analyses suggest that certain perfectionistic students may be particularly at risk as a result of the association between low perceived mattering and chronic interpersonal pressures to be perfect.

► The mattering construct is relevant to our understanding of perfectionism.
► Lack of mattering is linked with social pressures to be perfect.
► It is also related to higher levels of perfectionistic self-presentation and depression.
► Mattering partially mediated the link between perfectionism and depression.
► Link between mattering and perfectionism puts students at risk for depression.