Honors Projects

Celeste UhlFollow

Abstract

Perfectionism is a complex and multidimensional psychological phenomenon which is a proximal predictor for music performance anxiety, a risk factor associated with poorer musical performance. While existing literature emphasizes music performance anxiety as a deleterious outcome of perfectionism, less information exists regarding the relationship between perfectionism, self-compassion, and performance. There may be high levels of non- self-compassion in this population due to a folk belief that being self-critical is the best path to optimal performance. This study used a single-subject design to explore how self-compassion and perfectionism were related and if the use of daily self-compassion exercises would be linked to a musician’s performance and wellbeing. Results indicated that participants in a self-compassion intervention scored higher in on a self-compassion measure at the end of intervention period (p5=0.03). A qualitative content analysis of the participant journal entries collected after the intervention also indicated increased self-compassion. This research supports the idea that self-reflection can be helpful in supporting the mental health of music performance students.

Department

Psychology

Major

Psychology

First Advisor

Dr. William O'Brien

First Advisor Department

Psychology

Second Advisor

Dr. Kenneth Thompson

Second Advisor Department

Music Performance Studies

Publication Date

Spring 4-16-2024

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