Abstract

The theory that evaluative concerns (EC) perfectionism influences depression has been empirically supported. This study aimed to expand this basic model to explore origins of perfectionism,  depression-inducing mechanisms, and its alleviating mechanisms. We explored if possible origins of perfectionism could go back to insecure attachment and subsequent contingent self-esteem (CSE), and whether the mechanism of perfectionism to elicit depression was repetitive negative thinking (RNT). In addition, we attempted to test if self-compassion (SC) could alleviate these pathological effects. Experiences in Close Relationship-Relationship Structures Questionnaire (ECR-RS), Contingent Self-Esteem Scale (CSE), Evaluative Concerns Perfectionism, Perseverative Thinking Questionnaire, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and Self-Compassion Scale were administered to 232 adults in an online survey. The serial mediation model was tested using SPSS Process Macro 6, and the moderated mediation model was tested using Macro 87. These research models were tested by dividing into attachment subtypes: attachment avoidance and attachment anxiety. First, the mediation model starting from attachment avoidance and reaching depression through CSE, EC perfectionism, and RNT was supported. Additionally, in this model, the effect of RNT on depression was alleviated by SC. Thus, a moderated mediation model was established. Meanwhile, in the analysis using attachment anxiety as an independent variable, the mediation effect was supported, although the moderated mediation effect of SC was not established. It was discussed that unstable self-esteem brought about by insecure attachment might play a role as a possible origin of perfectionism, The need for intervention focusing on SC was examined. Finally,  limitations of this study and implications for future research were discussed.