Chronic pain and perfectionism: A new study reports that people living with chronic pain, such as persistent back pain or migraine, show significantly higher levels of perfectionism and reduced self-compassion and self-efficacy, highlighting the role of psychological factors in managing long-term conditions.
Chronic pain is typically defined as pain lasting beyond expected healing or more than three months.
Also Read | Chronic or acute back pain? Here’s how to identify the type
Published in Psychology and Health, the findings align with the perfectionism–social disconnection model, which posits that chasing excessively high personal standards can strain relationships and increase the risk of negative outcomes. “Chronic pain sufferers may experience frustration with difficulties performing day-to-day activities and push themselves toward unrealistic or unachievable goals,” said lead author Dr. Graeme Ditchburn of Murdoch University, Australia. He noted that perfectionism often brings harsh self-criticism and perceptions of others’ high expectations, compounding distress.
Researchers surveyed 1,046 adults aged 18–65: 531 with back pain, migraine, or arthritis lasting over three months and 515 without a pain condition. Those with chronic pain reported higher perfectionism and lower self-compassion and self-efficacy than pain-free peers. According to Ditchburn, lower self-compassion may reflect fear of judgement and self-blame for the condition’s burden, undermining confidence and linking directly and indirectly to greater stress, with consequences for physical and mental health.
The authors say the results can inform pain management by addressing maladaptive perfectionism and strengthening protective factors. They suggest interventions that build self-compassion and enhance self-efficacy could benefit people experiencing chronic pain.
