Perfectionism was once a trait you reeled off in a job interview. You know, when a potential new employer asked about your worst habits, you’d smile and say, “Oh, I’m a bit of a perfectionist”, implying you were diligent and dedicated.

Sadly perfectionism has taken on a darker meaning in recent years. A study published by the American Psychological Association (APA) shows a marked increase in “multidimensional perfectionism” in college students in the US, UK and Canada over the past 27 years. Authors Thomas Curran and Andrew P. Hill say this is down to an increase in “competitive individualism” or the idea that our achievements and success are now solely down to our merits and hard work rather than simply our socio-economic status. That feeling that we can, and should, constantly strive to achieve more.