Multidimensional perfectionism and procrastination: The mediating role of impostor phenomenon

Xiaoguang Wang^1,*, Feier Deng¹, Yuting Zheng¹, Yun Wang^2,*
1 Department of Applied Psychology, School of Humanities, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
2 Science and Technology College, Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanchang, China
* Corresponding Author: Xiaoguang Wang. Email: email ; Yun Wang. Email: email

Journal of Psychology in Africa https://doi.org/10.32604/jpa.2026.072076

Received 19 August 2025; Accepted 06 January 2026; Published online 05 March 2026

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Abstract

This study examined the mediating role of impostor phenomenon (IP) in the relationship between multidimensional perfectionism and procrastination. A cross-sectional survey of 393 Chinese university students (72.5% women; mean age 19.27 ± 1.26 years) completed standardized measures: the Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (FMPS), Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS), and Pure Procrastination Scale (PPS). Key findings following PROCESS mediation model testing revealed that adaptive perfectionism was associated with higher IP. Maladaptive perfectionism was associated with both higher IP and higher procrastination levels. IP acted as a significant suppressing mediator in the association between adaptive perfectionism and procrastination. While adaptive perfectionism was lower with procrastination, it was associated with higher IP experiences, and higher procrastination. The indirect weakened the relationship between adaptive perfectionism and procrastination. These findings align with the Self-Regulation Resource Model (SRRM), which proposes that negative emotions and maladaptive cognitive processes potentially impair the ability to resist immediate temptations and prioritize long-term goals. Student counselling and development services should provide maladaptive perfectionism and IP interventions to help reduce procrastination in college students.