Does perfectionism impact adherence to homework assignment? A preliminary pilot study of perfectionism and procrastination of CBT homework

Background:Homework assignments are generally viewed as an important factor of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).Aim:This study examined whether perfectionists procrastinate homework assignments.Method:Thirty-eight university students attended two sessions, 7 days apart from each other. After completing perfectionism scales at the first session, they were asked to complete homework tasks from a self-help wellbeing booklet and return the booklet at session 2.Results:Only maladaptive facets of perfectionism correlated with most of the behavioural measures of procrastination. Moreover, those high in maladaptive perfectionism set and completed fewer planned activities to improve their mood.Conclusions:These findings suggest that perfectionism may affect how clients set their homework, and perfectionism may interfere with the homework assignments of CBT