Comparative Study of Self-Criticism, Perfectionism, and Anxiety among University Students

The present study aims to explore the relationships between self-criticism, perfectionism, and anxiety among university students. A total of 227 students participated in the study. Self-report questionnaires or measures of self-criticism, perfectionism (evaluative and striving dimensions), and anxiety are used to collect data. Preliminary analyses reveal that the data violate the assumption of normality. As a result, non-parametric tests are utilized. Spearman’s correlation analysis showcases the presence of positively significant relationships between maladaptive perfectionism and anxiety, self-criticism and anxiety, and maladaptive perfectionism and self-criticism. Mann–Whitney U tests indicate that female students score higher on self-criticism, evaluative perfectionism, and anxiety, whereas male students score higher on striving perfectionism. Additionally, students with high levels of maladaptive perfectionism show significantly higher anxiety than people with lower levels. These findings highlight the role of self-critical and perfectionistic tendencies in the process of developing and experiencing anxiety among university students. The study highlights the need to develop interventions targeting harsh and negative self-evaluation. This supports mental and overall psychological well-being in various academic settings. The study concludes that self-critical thoughts and maladaptive perfectionism increase anxiety among university students.