Social support as a mediator of the relationship between perfectionism and depression: A preliminary test of the social disconnection model

Many studies show a general connection between perfectionism and depressive symptoms. However, despite increasing evidence that significant disruptions in interpersonal relationships are an important consequence of perfectionism, few studies have specifically examined the role of interpersonal disharmony in generating depressive symptoms among persons with high levels of perfectionism. To begin filling this void, the present study conducted a preliminary test of the social disconnection model (SDM; see Hewitt, Flett, Sherry, & Caelian, 2006). This model asserts that interpersonal dimensions of perfectionism, such as socially prescribed perfectionism (i.e.. perceiving that others are demanding perfection of oneself), generate disconnection from the social environment that contributes to depressive symptoms. The current study tested and supported the SDM by showing that perceived social support significantly mediated the relationship between socially prescribed perfectionism and depressive symptoms. No association was found between socially prescribed perfectionism and received social support. The present study thus provides preliminary support for the SDM and suggests that a subjective sense of disconnection from other people represents one reason why persons with high levels of socially prescribed perfectionism are vulnerable to depressive symptoms. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.