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Research Paper | Psychology | Volume 15 Issue 3, March 2026 | Pages: 1729 - 1731 | India
Perfectionism, Perceived Social Isolation, and the Adverse Impact on Mental Health in Today's Highly Competitive Generation
Abstract: Perfectionism is broadly defined as a combination of excessively high personal standards and overly critical self-evaluations (Frost, Marten, Lahart, & Rosenblate, 1990). Previous research has associated different forms of perfectionism, including trait perfectionism and perfectionistic self-presentation, with various personal and interpersonal difficulties. In contemporary society, characterized by constant social comparison, readily available social feedback, and increasing pressure to excel across multiple domains, perfectionistic tendencies may be intensified. This paper aims to conceptually examine the relationship between perfectionism, perceived social isolation, and adverse mental health outcomes. Drawing upon existing empirical studies and relevant psychological theories, the paper discusses how perfectionistic traits may contribute to interpersonal disconnection and loneliness, which in turn may increase vulnerability to anxiety, depression, and reduced well-being. The discussion also situates these relationships within the modern socio-cultural context marked by social media exposure and increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI). The review highlights the potential psychological costs of heightened performance pressures in contemporary competitive environments and underscores the importance of further research and applied interventions targeting perfectionism and social connectedness.
Keywords: Perfectionism, Social Isolation, Mental Health, Social Comparison, Artificial Intelligence, Loneliness
How to Cite?: Soumili Konar, "Perfectionism, Perceived Social Isolation, and the Adverse Impact on Mental Health in Today's Highly Competitive Generation", Volume 15 Issue 3, March 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1729-1731, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26207225818, DOI: https://dx.dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26207225818