Multidimensional Perfectionism in Motherhood and Its Outcomes: A Scoping Review

Parenthood is a complex experience characterized by psychosocial demands that especially impact mothers. In this context, perfectionism emerges as a characteristic that may contribute to maternal distress. Although research has shown links between perfectionistic variables and motherhood outcomes, no reviews were found that organize and synthesize these impacts. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify and describe the traits and relational aspects of multidimensional perfectionism, as defined by the MCCP, and the outcomes observed in research on perfectionistic motherhood. A total of 41 studies were included, with predominantly maternal samples (N ≈ 16,336) with an average age of 39 years (SD = 7.16). Results showed that traits were the most studied aspect of perfectionism. Outcomes included maternal psychological distress, the development of perfectionism and distress in children, and impacts on specific contexts like maternal identity and relationship conflicts. Overall, these findings suggest that motherhood is a sensitive context for expressing perfectionism, with links to psychological and relational outcomes. Future research should aim to integrate these variables using theoretical and methodological models that consider both intrapersonal and interpersonal dimensions of perfectionism.