When does conscientiousness become perfectionism ?

Gordon L. Flett, PhD Canada Research Chair in Personality and Health York University Toronto Mr. C is a 50-year-old professional writer who recently made a serious suicide attempt. At his initial session, Mr. C was hesitant to discuss his situation and reason for attending. He did, however, bring a copy of his résumé so the therapist could “get to know him quickly.” He said he had been depressed for a long time, especially since he found an error in one of his published works. His confi dence and writing abilities seemed to decline after this discovery, his career took a downturn, and ultimately he was fi red from his position. He described often being at odds with his supervisors at work, whom he saw as critical and condescending. He was mortifi ed by his job loss and did not inform his wife or friends of his fi ring. Mr. C had always been a bit of a loner, and after losing his job he further distanced himself from others. He began drinking heavily to avoid the pain of “letting everyone down.” His wife, family, and friends were shocked at the suicide attempt and expressed dismay that Mr. C had not confi ded in anyone. Mr. C describes himself as being perfectionistic throughout his life and never being quite good enough in any of his pursuits. This leads to self-recriminations and persistent feelings of shame.