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Dynamic‐relational treatment of perfectionism: An illustrative case study
Author(s) -
Hewitt Paul L.,
Mikail Samuel F.,
Dang Silvain S.,
Kealy David,
Flett Gordon L.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.124
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1097-4679
pISSN - 0021-9762
DOI - 10.1002/jclp.23040
Subject(s) - perfectionism (psychology) , psychology , psychodynamics , psychotherapist , interpersonal communication , vulnerability (computing) , psychodynamic psychotherapy , clinical psychology , interpersonal relationship , social psychology , computer security , computer science
Objective Perfectionism has been described as a multidimensional core vulnerability factor in various forms of dysfunction and disorders. Recently, we described our empirically supported‐dynamic‐relational treatment for perfectionism. This treatment integrates psychodynamic and interpersonal principles to reduce perfectionism and symptoms and enhance relationships with others and self by focusing on underlying relational patterns. Method We discuss this approach and present Azure, a 27‐year‐old woman who completed our group treatment and subsequent individual therapy as a follow‐up. Results Azure underwent a comprehensive psychological pretreatment assessment, the results of which were used to develop a working formulation that guided the group and individual psychotherapy. A description of the formulation and her experience in therapy are discussed and pre‐ and post‐treatment data illustrate changes in Azure's perfectionism and symptoms. Conclusions We discuss changes that occurred over the course of treatment.