Perfectionism, wellbeing, and coping among Filipino university students: a multi-study test of the 2 x 2 model of perfectionism

BackgroundPerfectionism is an important characteristic among university students given its associations with their wellbeing and coping. One approach to studying student perfectionism is the 2 x 2 model of perfectionism, which examines the interaction between self-oriented perfectionism and socially prescribed perfectionism (SPP). The model is useful for studying student perfectionism, but tests in different cultural contexts remain limited, with some suggesting its hypotheses need modification.ObjectivesThis article builds on existing research by presenting two novel studies that provide the model's first tests in predicting university student wellbeing and coping in a Filipino context, as well as tests of alternate cultural makeup and aggravating factor hypotheses for SPP's role.MethodsFollowing preregistered protocols, two independent samples of Filipino university students completed questionnaires measuring variables of interest - one cross-sectionally (N = 294) and one longitudinally (N = 324) with a 3-month follow-up.Results and ConclusionModerated regression analyses showed support for the model's hypotheses across both samples depending on the variable. Findings provided clearer support that students with high SPP or a strong belief that others expect perfection are more vulnerable to poorer wellbeing and unhealthy coping, making SPP an aggravating factor in the Filipino context.