Neurobiology of perfectionism

Abstract

This study seeks to understand the neurobiology of perfectionism in the context of cognitive neuroscience , with an emphasis on mental disorders, as part of the CPAH - Heraclito Research and Analysis Center program . The research focuses on the analysis of the brain functioning of perfectionists , using gifted individuals as a reference due to the greater tendency towards perfectionism in this group. The study also addresses profiles with high abilities and disorders such as Avoidant Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD), as well as anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders. Factors such as criticism and demands in childhood , high expectations and competitive environments are considered in the analysis .

The research is based on neuroimaging studies that point to the importance of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the anterior cingulate cortex in executive control and error correction, elements directly related to perfectionist behavior. In addition , dopamine and its influence on the reward system, as well as the role of the amygdala in emotional processing, are crucial factors in how perfectionists deal with success and failure.