The Perils of Perfectionism: Understanding Its Impact on Mental Health in Education
Release Date: 06/03/2025
SLOP: The Power of Repeated and Varied Practice in Education
Psychology in the Classroom
...with Dr Mike Hobbiss Mike is an experienced psychology teacher and co-author of "How to Teach Psychology: An Evidence-Informed Approach." In this episode Mike explains how learning and disciplinary fundamentals shape classroom practice, and introduces the SLOP (Shed Loads of Practice) approach, emphasizing varied, repeated practice for deeper understanding. Despite examples and context being set within Psychology as a subject, the concepts and practice is applicable to a wide range of subjects. The discussion explores practical strategies, the importance of building flexible schemas, and...
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Zines and Emotional Literacy: A Fun and Engaging Path to Better Mental Health
Psychology in the Classroom
…with Julie Kane In today’s educational landscape, supporting young people’s mental health and emotional literacy is more important than ever. We know that many young people are struggling with managing their emotions and this impacts their education in a range of ways. Julie is a third-year PhD student at Aston University, and discusses her innovative research using zines to support emotional literacy and mental health in young people. Julie shares how her background in psychology and art inspired her to develop creative workshops for primary and secondary students. We discuss the...
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Creating Safer Spaces: How Schools Can Foster Mental Wellbeing for All Students
Psychology in the Classroom
With Jade Davies, Dr Ola Demkowicz, Dr Khathustshelo Muluvhu-Malanga and Dr Laura Oxley In this final episode from the BPS Psychology of Education Setion's conference we hear from four experts on different elements of mental health in schools. We explore how social media impacts teenagers’ wellbeing, the unique mental health challenges faced by adolescent girls, effective counseling models for supporting students towards academic excellence, and the importance of teacher wellbeing. The guests share research insights and practical advice, emphasising the need for open conversations, systemic...
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Why Students Want AI Feedback but Crave Human Connection in Learning
Psychology in the Classroom
...with Professor Louise Taylor and Professor Silke Paulmann In this episode of Psychology in the Classroom, Professor Louise Taylor discusses students’ perceptions of using generative AI for assessment feedback, highlighting its benefits and the continued need for human connection in the marking and feedback process. In part two Professor Silke Pohlmann shares research on how a teacher’s tone of voice shapes students’ classroom experiences. Both conversations, recorded at the British Psychological Society’s conference, offer practical insights for educators on integrating AI...
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Evaluating Mental Health in Schools: Tools, Challenges, and Collaborative Solutions for Success
Psychology in the Classroom
…with Dr Charlotte Bagnall and Annie O’Brien In this episode, Charlotte and Annie discuss the complexities of mental health and wellbeing interventions in schools with me. We explored the challenges of evaluating these programs in real-world settings, the development of child-centered measurement tools, and the decision-making processes schools use when selecting interventions. Our conversation highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration, context-sensitive evaluation, and balancing evidence with practical realities. We agreed that while there are no easy answers, ongoing...
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From words to action: how teacher language shapes student success
Psychology in the Classroom
...with Prof David Putwain, Dr Laura Nicholson and Mahdi Moazzen This episode is a lively discussion with educational researchers Prof. David Putwain, Dr. Laura Nicholson, and Mahdi Moazzen. We explored how teachers’ language and message framing influence student motivation, engagement, and resilience. The conversation covered research on positive messaging in science classes, the impact of gain- versus loss-framed messages, and the role of coping strategies in academic buoyancy. We also discussed practical implications for teachers in the classroom and the potential of technology to support...
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The Benefits of Reading for Pleasure: Unlocking a World of Opportunities
Psychology in the Classroom
...with Prof. Teresa Cremin. In this episode, Professor Teresa Cremin from the Open University, an expert on reading for pleasure, talks about why encouraging children to read voluntarily is so important. We explored the academic, social, and emotional benefits of reading, discussed the challenges posed by technology and changing family habits, and highlighted the crucial roles teachers, schools, and libraries play in fostering a love of reading. Teresa shared research insights and practical strategies for building positive reader identities and creating supportive, social reading environments...
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Unpacking the Complexities of Bullying: From Counter Connecting to Whole-School Solutions
Psychology in the Classroom
...with Dr Julia Badger In this episode of #Psychologyintheclassroom bullying expert Dr Julia Badger, from Oxford University discusses her conference talk, “Peer Power: Understanding and Changing Bullying Dynamics in Mainstream and Specialist Special Schools.” Bullying is a public health priority. As teachers we need to know about bullying involvement and its impact. In this conversation Julia explores the challenges of defining bullying, introduces the concept of “counter connecting,” and highlights the unique experiences of children with SEND. She shares evidence-based...
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Beyond Social Media and Smartphones: Factors Affecting Youth Mental Health
Psychology in the Classroom
...with Prof. Neil Humphrey In this episode Professor Neil Humphrey from the University of Manchester, discusses trends in youth mental health, the rise in internalising issues like anxiety, and the impact of societal changes such as sleep hygiene and service cuts. He critiques current research methods, advocates for evidence-based, cost-effective school interventions, and emphasizes the importance of promoting well-being through arts, physical activity, and sleep. The episode offers practical insights for teachers and highlights the need for nuanced, whole-community approaches. Key points:...
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Navigating Friendships: The Hidden Struggles of School Transitions
Psychology in the Classroom
In this episode Lucy Keller, a PhD researcher in psychology, discusses her work on improving friendship and social connectedness among young people during the critical transition from primary to secondary school. Lucy shares insights on the impact of social connectedness on mental health, In addition she touches on the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent and gender-questioning students. She advocates for inclusive school environments, student-led clubs, and systemic education reform. Lucy highlights the importance of extracurricular activities amongst other practical tips and...
info_outlineIn this episode we explores the impact of perfectionism on exam anxiety, particularly among neurodivergent individuals. Dr. Tracey Donachie, a lecturer in sports and exercise psychology, discusses the components and prevalence of perfectionism, highlighting its psychological and behavioral effects. Maciej Matejko, from the Re-Star Project, shares his perspective on perfectionism in relation to autism, while consultant Julia Gudinchet offers strategies for managing perfectionistic tendencies in individuals with ADHD and autism. The episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for educators and students to foster healthier attitudes towards achievement.
Find out more:
Dr Tracy Donachie: https://www.ncl.ac.uk/psychology/people/profile/tracydonachie.html
Julia Gudinchet, Sunflower Autism Consultancy: https://sunflowerautismconsultancy.co.uk
Pomodoro Technique: https://changingstatesofmind.libsyn.com/how-effective-is-the-pomodoro-technique
RE-STAR project (Maciej Matejko): https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/re-star
Time Stamps:
Expert Insight on Perfectionism (00:01:15)
Dr. Tracey Donachie discusses her extensive experience with managing exam stress and perfectionism & explains two main components of perfectionism: high standards and self-criticism.
Prevalence of Perfectionism (00:02:58)
Discussion on the rising rates of socially prescribed perfectionism among students and its debilitating effects.
Good vs. Bad Perfectionism (00:06:00)
Exploration of the spectrum of perfectionism, distinguishing between striving for excellence and harmful perfectionism.
Long-Term Psychological Effects (00:07:39)
Discussion on burnout and other psychological issues linked to chronic perfectionism.
Impact Beyond Academics (00:09:31)
Perfectionism's effects on sports, body image, and interpersonal relationships are examined.
Strategies for Teachers (00:13:49)
Recommendations for teachers to help students manage perfectionism and foster a growth mindset.
Advice for Students During Exam Season (00:16:15)
Practical tips for students to combat perfectionism during high-stress exam periods.
Understanding Autism and Perfectionism (00:19:00)
Discussion on autism and its relationship with perfectionism, featuring insights from Maciej.
Understanding Perfectionism in Neurodivergent Individuals (00:20:02)
Discussion on how perfectionism can stem from positive qualities but become problematic, especially for neurodivergent individuals.
Perfectionism as a Coping Mechanism (00:22:20)
Exploration of how perfectionism can serve as a response to social difficulties and low self-esteem.
Personal Experiences with Perfectionism (00:23:36)
Insights into the speaker's personal struggles with perfectionism and its draining effects.
Advice on Managing Perfectionism (00:29:30): Changing Relationships with Failure (00:30:09) , Exploring Interests to Reduce Pressure (00:32:14), The Need for Recovery Time (00:34:17), Exploring Neurodiversity (00:35:15), Seeking Mental Health Support (00:38:02)
Final Thoughts on Perfectionism (00:40:07)
Reflection on the need to help students foster a healthy relationship with failure and imperfection.