Performing well academically often opens the door to opportunity. Academic achievement can lead to acceptance into organizations, post-graduate study, and even positions of leadership. The pressure to achieve academically can sometimes be interpreted as requiring near-perfect performance. Therefore the trait of perfectionism may be fostered in some students. But does the pressure to be perfect have damaging effects? Research suggests that perfectionism can lead to lower levels of self-esteem. Black (1974) and Rogers, Smith and Coleman (1978) found that academic ability is often associated with self-esteem. It is hypothesized that the perceived pressure to be academically perfect will be negatively associated with self-esteem. Approximately 50 Spelman College students were recruited to complete the MSEI (Multidimensional Self-Esteem Inventory) and MPS (Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale) via an online platform. The scores from both scales will be correlated with a Pearson Correlation test. It is expected that participants who score higher on the perfectionism scale will have lower levels of self-esteem. Such a finding would have implications for implementation of programs and services at colleges that could decrease the pressure that is associated with trying to perfect in academic performance.
