Trait Perfectionism and Orthorexia in Exercisers: The Mediating Role of Perfectionistic Self-Presentation

Purpose: Research suggests that trait perfectionism can predict orthorexia – a pathological obsession with correct nutrition. However, no studies have examined the role of perfectionistic self-presentation in whether a desire to present oneself perfectly is an explanation for previously observed relationships. The present study therefore examined whether perfectionistic self-presentation mediates relations between trait perfectionism and orthorexia. Methods: A sample of 177 gym members (Mean age = 31.6 years) were recruited via social media platforms. Participants completed an online questionnaire that included the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale-Short Form, Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale, and the Eating Habits Questionnaire on two occasions (separated by 6-weeks). Results: Using cross-sectional mediation analyses, perfectionistic self-promotion and nondisplay of imperfection mediated relations between self-oriented perfectionism and orthorexia, perfectionistic self-promotion mediated relations between other-oriented perfectionism and orthorexia, and perfectionistic self-promotion and nondisplay of imperfection mediated relations between socially prescribed perfectionism and orthorexia. Using longitudinal mediation analyses, nondisplay of imperfection mediated relations between self-oriented perfectionism and orthorexia and socially prescribed perfectionism and orthorexia over time. Conclusion: The study provides evidence that nondisplay of imperfection and perfectionistic self-promotion are important in regards to predicting orthorexia and may mediate the trait perfectionism-orthorexia relationship