Perfectionism, self-compassion, and general self-efficacy between those with and without chronic pain

Abstract

Although the association between stress and pain is recognised, little is known about links between chronic pain and stress arising from perfectionist expectations. Two studies compared levels of socially prescribed perfectionism (SPP), self-oriented perfectionism (SOP), self-compassion (SC), and self-efficacy (SE) between individuals with and without chronic pain. In Study 1, 237 participants with chronic pain and 237 without pain completed an online survey. Participants with chronic pain had significantly higher levels of SPP and lower levels of SC than those without pain. However, there were no differences in SOP or SE. In Study 2, 294 individuals with chronic pain, and 278 without, completed an online survey. Individuals with chronic pain reported significantly higher levels of perfectionism and lower levels of SC and SE than pain-free individuals. SPP and SOP were higher in those with low SC scores. Correlation analyses identified that SOP and SC were positively associated with SE whereas SPP was associated negatively with SE. These findings largely align with the perfectionism social disconnection model. A clearer understanding of the inter-relationships between perfectionism and protective factors, such as SC and SE, has important implications for those experiencing chronic pain conditions, including potential pain management interventions and long-term wellbeing.