Narcissistic Vulnerability as a Mediator between Parental Pressure, Perfectionism and Procrastination in Medical Students

Abstract

The present study aims to examine the relationship between parental 
pressure, perfectionism, and procrastination among medical students, 
with a focus on the mediating role of narcissistic vulnerability. A cross
sectional survey research design was employed and comprised two 
phases: a pilot and a main study. Results showed that parental pressure 
and perfectionism were significantly and positively related to 
narcissistic vulnerability while only rigid perfectionism was positively 
associated with academic procrastination. Mediation analysis further 
indicated that narcissistic vulnerability played small but significant 
mediating role between parental pressure and procrastination and 
partial mediating role between perfectionism and procrastination. The 
findings imply that educators, mental health professionals, and policy
makers should develop interventions targeting perfectionistic rigidity, 
emotional regulation, and fear of imperfection. Awareness programs for
parents and psychological support initiatives within medical 
institutions can help foster autonomy, reduce emotional strain, and 
minimize procrastination by addressing internalized pressure and 
maladaptive perfectionism.