Perfectionism, academic performance, and proneness to depression in students at a South African university
Date
2018
Authors
Madi, Asanda
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Abstract
This current study aimed to investigate the nature of the relationships between aspects of
perfectionism and academic performance in students from a South African university. The
study attempted to ascertain whether various aspects of perfectionism predicted academic
performance. The study likewise sought to establish whether the relationship between
perfectionism and academic performance was moderated by proneness to depression. The
study was envisaged to add theoretical clarity and direction in establishing the possible role
played by various aspects of perfectionism in academic performance, and whether the nature
of the relationships between various aspects of perfectionism and academic performance
differed based on proneness to depression. This is important as behavioural patterns within
varying personality structures can subsequently influence academic success, as outlined in the
literature (O’Connor & Paunonen, 2007). Thus, this study has potential implications for
universities, lecturers, and policy makers in the formulation of curricula and likewise
accommodating individuals with various needs and personality types. This study could help
to inform lecturers about who will perform exceptionally well in class and who might
possibly struggle.
Keywords: academic performance, perfectionism, proneness to depression, university
students.
Description
A research project submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters in Clinical Psychology in the Faculty of Humanities, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, November 2018