Perfeccionismo en el estudiante universitario: factores asociados y consecuencias

Abstract

Históricamente, el perfeccionismo ha sido percibido como un rasgo y conducta disfuncional por sus características e impacto sobre distintos problemas psicológicos y académicos. Sin embargo, evidencia emergente indica la presencia de aspectos más adaptativos de este constructo y su relación con mayor bienestar y rendimiento. En el presente trabajo se realizó una revisión documental sobre los factores asociados (variables académicas, psicológicas y familiares) y consecuencias del perfeccionismo, general y académico, en el estudiante universitario. Para ello, se emplearon bases de datos y palabras clave relacionadas a la temática. se revisaron artículos a texto completo, nacionales e internacionales, en los idiomas inglés y español, publicados en el período 2019-2023. Se abordaron los modelos teóricos más resaltantes sobre el perfeccionismo, sus factores asociados y las consecuencias que produce en estudiantes universitarios. Se encontró que el perfeccionismo se ha asociado y tiene impacto sobre diversas variables psicológicas y académicas, lo que varía según sus dimensiones. No obstante, tiende a ser de carácter más desadaptativo, con evidencia contundente en lo que respecta a diversos problemas como la ansiedad, depresión, procrastinación, burnout, entre otros. Finalmente, se realizaron reflexiones teóricas sobre lo hallado, así también sobre el impacto teórico y social de la presente investigación.

Historically, perfectionism has been perceived as a dysfunctional trait and behavior due to its characteristics and impact on different psychological and academic problems. The search for high standards and rigid self-evaluation, as well as the constant concern for errors and actions hinders university student´s ability to adapt and consequently, experience well-being. However, emerging evidence indicates the presence of more adaptive dimensions of this construct and its relationship with greater well-being and performance. For this reason, a documentary review was carried out on the associated factors (academic, psychological and family variables) and consequences of perfectionism (general and academic) in university students. Keywords related to the topic were used to search in the databases. Those with full text were revised, both national and international studies, as well as in English and Spanish for the last five years, specifically between the years 2019-2023. The most outstanding theoretical models of perfectionism, its associated factors, and the consequences it produces in university students were addressed. It was found that it has been associated with and has an impact on various psychological and academic variables according to its dimensions. However, it tends to be more maladaptive in nature, with strong evidence regarding various problems such as anxiety, depression, procrastination, burnout, among others. Finally, theoretical reflections were made on the findings, as well as on the theoretical and social impact of the research.