Reconsidering Perfect : A Qualitative Study of The Experiences of Undergoing Internet-Based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Perfectionism

• Internet-based cognitive behaviour therapy (ICBT) is a promising format for treating different psychiatric disorders. In addition, several clinical trials have found positive results for implementing transdiagnostic treatments via the Internet, as well as for using ICBT to target transdiagnostic processes, such as perfectionism. However, few qualitative studies have been conducted on the experiences of patients undergoing such treatments, making it unclear what aspects might facilitate or hinder their delivery. In the current study, patients completing twelve-week therapist-guided ICBT for perfectionism responded to open-ended questions at post-treatment. In total, 30 out of 62 (48.4%) rated the ease of understanding and completing the treatment program, as well as described their impressions of its content and the support provided by their therapist. The results were analysed qualitatively using thematic analysis. Overall, patients were satisfied, finding treatment easy to comprehend and use. Five themes were found in the responses; Learning how to do things differently, Noticing the positives, Feeling safe to be honest, A comfortable treatment format and Barriers to treatment. The results suggest that many patients were able to achieve a change in perspective in relation to their perfectionism and started facing their fears. They were also able to report the benefits of doing things differently as part of treatment, such as an improvement in their interpersonal relationships. Most patients were also positive about the treatment format, enjoying its flexibility and the encouragement offered by their therapist. However, obstacles such as conflicting commitments, personal difficulties, time-consuming and comprehensive modules, and a desire for more support were brought up by some, suggesting that there are aspects that could be considered in the future.

Subject headings

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Psykologi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Psychology (hsv//eng)

Keyword

ICBT

perfectionism

Psychology

psykologi

Publication and Content Type

vet (subject category)

kon (subject category)