The structure and correlates of perfectionism in African American children

J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2004 Jun;33(2):313-24. doi: 10.1207/s15374424jccp3302_13.

Abstract

This study examined the structure and symptom correlates of perfectionism in a sample of 6th-grade, urban, African American children using the Child and Adolescent Perfectionism Scale (CAPS; Flett, Hewitt, Boucher, Davidson, & Munro, 2000). Confirmatory factor analysis showed inadequate fit of the original subscales. Exploratory factor analysis suggested 3 dimensions of perfectionism: A Socially Prescribed and a Self-Oriented-Critical factor were described as maladaptive, whereas a Self-Oriented-Striving factor was proposed as adaptive. Cross-sectional correlations among the perfectionism dimensions and symptoms of psychopathology fit well with the adaptive versus maladaptive model. In addition, Socially Prescribed Perfectionism showed a robust predictive relation to 7th-grade internalizing symptoms, especially depression, in boys. Results are discussed in the context of the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of this African American sample and suggestions for future research are provided.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Black or African American / psychology*
  • Black or African American / statistics & numerical data
  • Child
  • Conduct Disorder / diagnosis
  • Conduct Disorder / ethnology
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Personality Disorders / diagnosis
  • Personality Disorders / epidemiology
  • Personality Disorders / ethnology*
  • Personality Inventory