Impact of Self-compassion based Psychotherapy in Mitigating Perfectionistic Fixity and Cultivating Flexibility

Description

Page: 322-326

Priyadarshini Pant and Kaur, Harprit (Department of Psychology, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab)

Perfectionism is a psychological barrier characterized by functional fixity that arrests normal functioning thereby hosting a range of mental health concerns. Self-compassion is a learnable skill that constitutes the ability to offer oneself compassion during turbulent times. The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of self-compassion-based psychotherapy in mitigating perfectionistic fixity and cultivating functional flexibility. The present study utilized a multiple case study design with a sample of (n=3) cases of maladaptive perfectionism diagnosed by their respective psychiatrists. Data was collected with the help of a purposive sampling technique and data was collected in the Psychotherapy OPD clinic. Tools used involved detailed clinical history, Self-compassion Scale (Neff, 2003) and Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (Hewit et al., 1990). All the standard ethical considerations were followed during the data collection and reporting. The study findings emphasize the role of self-compassion in mitigating perfectionistic fixity and cultivating functional flexibility. The study provides a blueprint for an intervention module which has both clinical as well as research implications.