Current Project

The Perfectionist Family: Why Early Intervention Matters and What Actually Works (working title)

The process of learning includes failure, but for kids with perfectionism those moments are too intense and they often shut down. Parents try their best to help but end up feeling frustrated too.

Christina Corcoran's upcoming book is a refreshing blend of self-discovery, humor, and research. She breaks down the complexity of this trait and offers practical coping strategies. Perfectionism isn't about wanting to be perfect, it's the false belief that if I'm not perfect, I'm unworthy of love, acceptance, and forgiveness.

Christina shares the messy, hard work it takes to offset a lifetime of perfectionistic habits. When parents overthink, over criticize, and over control, kids are learning those same tendencies. The time to act is now.

With patience and the right tools families can learn to let go of impossible standards and treat themselves with more grace and compassion.

Christina Corcoran© 2024

Kirsten Gilbert, PhD

contributing author

Perfectionism can be a driving force for success, but for many it can hinder productivity and erode self resilience. I am honored to collaborate with Christina Corcoran on this book.

My research in overcontrol, a constellation of characteristics including heightened performance monitoring, inflexibility, perfectionism and aversion to making mistakes, shows these traits might be a risk factor for pediatric anxiety symptoms and OCD. I'm passionate about this subject and believe early intervention is important.

This book is written through the perspective of Christina's journey from researcher, to student, to teacher. It's both relatable and informative. This a much needed resource for parents, but also teachers, coaches, and mental health professionals who may not know the signs of perfectionism or understand the mechanics of this trait.