Millie Sperryn and Faith Slack

• Peer Led Perfectionism Intervention for Students. Athletes and Staff
• BSc Jt Hons Psychology and Sport and Exercise Science

The trait of perfectionism is becoming an increasingly concerning factor of attainment and achievement within academic and sporting environments. In striving for perfectionistic standards, the population’s mental health is being hindered. This often comes from pressures such as social media, but also perceived pressures from institutions, including teachers and coaches, as well as perceived pressure from parents and carers.

This project aims to tackle the negative consequences of perfectionism by educating individuals on the unattainable goals they set themselves, and providing techniques to change their perception of what is required of them, allowing them to sustain better mental health and bring higher life satisfaction.

By delivering to students and athletes directly we can address the stigma surrounding the need to achieve perfection within a given field, but by including staff and coaches within the intevention we can highlight certain practices that cause these issues, challenge them at the source, and build a framework for a more positive mental health and academic environment moving forward. 

Funded by: Newcastle University Research Scholarship 

Project Supervisor: Dr Tracy Donachie