Perfectionism can be either a positive or negative behavior. There are certain clues that can help to identify when perfectionism is unhealthy.
Indications of negative perfectionism:
(1) when there is excessive concern about mistakes or imperfections
(2) when it is pursued in an obsessive-compulsive or neurotic manner
(3) when it is used to justify negative attitudes or bad behavior towards others
(4) when it is used as a reason to feel negative about self, fueling depression
(5) when there are comorbid psychological conditions such as anxiety, an eating disorder or substance abuse
