Multidimensional perfectionism and perceived stress: Group differences and test of a coping mediation model

This study examined the relationship between multidimensional perfectionism, four types of coping (task-oriented, emotion-oriented, social diversion, distraction), and perceived stress in a sample of 323 undergraduate students. Specifically, results of the study offered support for the tripartite model of perfectionism with three classes (adaptive, maladaptive, and non-perfectionists) who differed from one another on levels of stress and coping. The relationship between maladaptive perfectionism and perceived stress was mediated by task-oriented, emotional-oriented, and distraction coping in support of the general vulnerability model of perfectionism. In regard to adaptive perfectionism, only task-oriented and emotion-oriented coping were significant mediators.