ABSTRACT
As a parent (or other caregiver) and/ or educator, the parents can serve as a role model, support system, and a source of guidance to a child who exhibits perfectionistic tendencies. With our help, our child can let go of unhealthy perfectionism. If our child displays clinical symptoms, such as talking about suicide, a depressed mood, general anxiety, or loss of appetite, be sure to seek professional help. In fact, the symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, and even things like attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder or processing disorders (which can contribute to perfectionism) are easily missed, even by the most diligent caregiver. Self-oriented perfectionism occurs when a child feels the internal drive for unreasonably high expectations. Socially prescribed perfectionism occurs when a child's desire for perfection is perceived to come from their social context (i.e., family, educators, coaches, friends, or even media).
