The Effect of Coping Strategies on Perfectionism with the Mediating Role of Achievement Motivation in Students

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of coping strategies on perfectionism with the mediating role of achievement motivation among students at Islamic Azad University, Neka Branch. This research was applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-correlational based on structural equation modeling. The statistical population consisted of all students of Islamic Azad University, Neka Branch (N = 1812). Using stratified random sampling by gender, 317 students were selected. Data were collected using three standardized questionnaires: the 42-item Rosenstiel and Keefe Coping Strategies Questionnaire, the 29-item Hermans Achievement Motivation Questionnaire, and the 58-item Hill et al. Perfectionism Questionnaire. Reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient: 0.93 for coping strategies, 0.88 for achievement motivation, and 0.96 for perfectionism, all statistically significant. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) with the Partial Least Squares (PLS) approach via Smart PLS software. The results showed that coping strategies have a significant effect on perfectionism among students. Coping strategies also significantly influence achievement motivation. Furthermore, achievement motivation has a significant effect on perfectionism. In addition, achievement motivation acts as a mediating variable in the relationship between coping strategies and perfectionism in students. It can be concluded that students who have higher levels of coping strategies and achievement motivation display healthier forms of perfectionism, use more effective learning strategies, and ultimately demonstrate better academic functioning.