Internet-based cognitive behaviour therapy for perfectionism

Internet cognitive behaviour therapy for perfectionism (ICBT-P) comprises eight online modules for the treatment of clinical perfectionism delivered via a secure online platform wherever the participant had access to a computer. The modules are available for use in research, and each take about 30 minutes to complete. The intervention was unguided with just reminder emails sent by a university research student once a week. The modules involve reading and answering questions and trying out new ideas in practice in their own lives. In study 1 modules were completed once a week for 3 weeks, in Study 2 modules were completed around twice a week for 4 weeks. Adherence was assessed by accessing website analytics. Module 1 (defining perfectionism) defines ‘unhelpful perfectionism’ and examines the impact it can have on your life. Module 2 (Your Perfectionism Cycle) identifies persistent perfectionistic behaviours and starts to combat them. Module 3 (Surveys and Experiments) ‘Reality check’: adjusts standards and re-examines beliefs according to others’ experiences with behaviours linked to your perfectionism. Module 4 (New Ways of Thinking) challenges and changes perfectionism related cognitions and moves towards a flexible thinking style. Module 5 (Using Skills for Managing Unhelpful Perfectionism) seeks to overcome procrastination and improve problem solving skills, learning to engage without feeling guilty over ‘wasted time’. Module 6 (Self-criticism or Self-compassion) teaches how to deal with ‘failure’; decreasing self-criticism and increasing self-compassion. Module 7 (Re-examining the way we define our self-worth) examines how you define your self-worth; self-worth is not defined by achievement. Module 8 (Staying Well) involves a brief review, and planning for the future –aspirations and preparing for possible setbacks.