perfectionism

n. Perfectionism refers to a trait-based tendency to hold extremely high expectations of the self or others and to expect such performance from self or others in goal pursuit. Traditionally considered maladaptive, perfectionism has been linked to negative cognitive, affective, and behavioral outcomes (e.g., depression, anxiety). Recent arguments have countered that when high expectations motivate efforts toward high achievement or allow for enjoyment of success, perfectionism may be seen as an adaptive trait. Debate continues regarding the unidimensionality versus multidimensionality of perfectionism, 
as well as whether individuals showing this tendency should be identified as categorically perfectionistic (as opposed to the dimensional description of “having high levels of a perfectionistic attribute”). Current research often focuses on the sources and targets of perfectionistic expectations (e.g., from and/or toward self or other), as well as specific behaviors that may indicate perfectionism (e.g., a desire for organization or a marked fear of failure). – CAD, ECC