The Psychological Effects of Perfectionism on Sport, economic and Engineering Students

Abstract

Salima Abdullah Alwan, Karrar Kareem Jawad, Nagham Hameed Abdulkhudhur Alyaseri, Kussay Ahmed Subhi, Emad Kamil Hussein, Ashham Mohammed Aned, Hussein Kadhim Sharaf*, Hakeem Hammood Flayyih, Mazen Dawood Salman, Thuraya Saadon Abdulrasool and Rajaa Ali Abed

This research aims to investigate the psychological effects of perfectionism on engineering students, with a specific focus on its prevalence, impact on academic performance, and coping strategies employed by students to manage perfectionistic tendencies. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving surveys and objective measures to assess perfectionism levels, academic performance, and coping strategies among engineering students. Participants were selected from various engineering programs and academic institutions, ensuring a diverse representation of the engineering student population. The findings reveal a significant prevalence of perfectionism among engineering students, with varying levels observed across the sample. Analysis indicates both positive and negative correlations between perfectionism and academic performance measures. Some participants with higher levels of perfectionism demonstrate greater academic achievements, while others show lower academic performance. Coping strategies employed by engineering students include social support-seeking, problem-solving, cognitive restructuring, self-compassion, and, to a lesser extent, avoidance, and procrastination. This research sheds light on the unique psychological challenges faced by engineering students due to perfectionistic tendencies. The findings have implications for educational institutions, educators, and support services, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to address the psychological well-being and academic success of engineering students. By identifying effective coping strategies, support systems can be developed to help students manage perfectionism-related stress and enhance their overall well-being. The psychological effects of perfectionism on engineering students have significant implications for their academic performance and overall well-being. This research contributes to our understanding of the prevalence, impact, and coping strategies related to perfectionism within the engineering student population. It highlights the importance of creating supportive environments that foster healthy achievement orientations while addressing the negative aspects of perfectionistic tendencies.