Perfectionism and selective attention predict dysmorphic concern in an Australian university population

Bibliographic Data

ID11511196
AuthorsShevaugn Johnson (0000-0002-5294-3874, Flinders University, corresponding author), Paul Williamson (0000-0002-5243-4324, Flinders University), Terence Wade (0000-0003-4402-770X, Flinders University), Tracey D Wade (Flinders University)
Year2019
Volume55
Issue2
Pages143-155
Publication date2019-07-17
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAustralian Psychologist (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0005-0067 • E-ISSN: 1742-9544
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/ap.12423
OpenAlexW2956428486
LanguageEN
References cited46

ObjectiveThere is a paucity of research investigating the underlying aetiological mechanisms contributing to dysmorphic concern. In the present study, we used a multidimensional measure of perfectionism and a dot‐probe task, borrowed from the dysmorphic concern and body dysmorphic disorder literature, to assess associations between subtypes of perfectionism (i.e., concerns and strivings), selective attention towards target word stimuli (i.e., DC‐body, DC‐negative, and DC‐positive words), and dysmorphic concern. This was the first study to simultaneously examine these predictors and to investigate specific underlying selective attention mechanisms using probes and stimuli relevant to dysmorphic concern. Informed by current theories, we hypothesised that perfectionistic concerns and/or strivings and attention bias to target stimuli would be significantly associated with dysmorphic concern.MethodFifty‐seven students recruited from an Australian university completed the dot‐probe task and self‐report measures for perfectionism and dysmorphic concern.ResultsDoubts about actions (perfectionistic concerns), or a perfectionistic need to check details, and attention bias towards the DC‐positive words (e.g., pretty, attractive, chiselled) predicted dysmorphic concern in men and women. Perfectionism predicted most of the variance.ConclusionsPerfectionism and selective attention predicted dysmorphic concern, which may serve to inform the development of future dot‐probe paradigms and early intervention programs targeting at‐risk populations endorsing clinically significant dysmorphic concerns

Anxiety · Attentional bias · Body dysmorphic disorder · Developmental psychology · Perfectionism (psychology · Population · Psychiatry · Body Image and Dysmorphia Studies · Clinical Psychology · Eating Disorders and Behaviors · Medicine · Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders · Psychology

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