The Role of Perfectionism Dimensions and Defensive Styles in Depression-Among University Students

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of perfectionism dimensions and defensive styles in depression among Rasht Islamic Azad University student’s. 300 undergraduate university students were selected by cluster sampling and completed Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS, Hewitt & Felt, 1991) and Defense Style Questionnaire (DSQ-40, Andrews, Singh, & Bond, 1993) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDL-II, Beck, 1961). Data were analysis using regression analysis. The results showed that the three dimensions of perfectionism {egocentric, other-oriented, community-oriented} had a significant effect on symptoms of depression. Also, the three dimensions of perfectionism had a significant effect on defense style (mature defense mechanism, immature defense mechanism, neurotic defense mechanism) (p≤.0.05). Results of regression analyzes revealed that mature defense style, immature and neuroticism could predict depression level in university students (p≤.0.05). It can be concluded that dimensions of perfectionism and defense style predict depression severity.