Name: Our dangerous obsession with perfectionism is getting worse
Uploaded: 2019-03-14T15:02:26Z
Duration: 14 min 45 s
Description: Social psychologist Thomas Curran explores how the pressure to be perfect -- in our social media feeds, in school, at work -- is driving a rise in mental illness, especially among young people. Learn more about the causes of this phenomenon and how we can create a culture that celebrates the joys of imperfection.

Thomas Curran: Our dangerous obsession with perfectionism is getting worse

Our dangerous obsession with perfectionism is getting worse

Social psychologist Thomas Curran explores how the pressure to be perfect -- in our social media feeds, in school, at work -- is driving a rise in mental illness, especially among young people. Learn more about the causes of this phenomenon and how we can create a culture that celebrates the joys of imperfection.

Chasing perfection has become a cultural obsession, especially among young people, but it brings significant psychological harm. Rates of socially prescribed perfectionism have doubled in recent decades, with one in three young people projected to suffer clinically by 2050. Social media, constant testing, and competitive pressures amplify feelings of inadequacy and drive anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thinking. Embracing imperfection, self-compassion, and a supportive environment can help break this dangerous cycle.