Research on the relationship between perfectionistic self-presentation and anxiety of psychology students

Abstract

The modern academic and professional environment places high demands on the personal and professional qualities of future specialists, which contributes to stronger manifestations of perfectionism among students. This study examines the relationship between perfectionistic self-presentation and anxiety levels in psychology students. The aim of this study was to explore the characteristics of perfectionistic self-presentation strategies and to determine the extent of their association with anxiety. The participants were psychology students, with a focus on their self-presentation features and emotional states.

The study involved 51 psychology students aged 17 to 22. As methodological research tools, the Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale (PSPS; Hewitt & Flett) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were used. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was applied to analyze the data. The results indicated that higher levels of perfectionistic self-presentation were positively correlated with increased anxiety (r = .283, p < .05). It was found that such aspects of perfectionistic self-presentation as the tendency to present an idealized image and the tendency to conceal shortcomings were most strongly associated with elevated anxiety. These findings suggest that students’ internal drive to maintain an impeccable image in the eyes of others may contribute to the development of anxiety.

The results of the study expand the understanding of the psychological mechanisms of self-presentation among youth and highlight the importance of preventing anxiety disorders in student populations. This research may be useful in practical psychology, particularly in the context of psychoprophylaxis and student counseling.