Most people associate nail biting with nervousness or anxiety, but a new study published in the Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry suggests otherwise.
Dr. Kieron O’Connor, author of the study, studied 48 nail-biters and found that this habit is actually more indicative of someone who is a perfectionist.
O’Connor stated:
“We believe that individuals with these repetitive behaviors may be perfectionistic, meaning that they are unable to relax and to perform tasks at a normal pace. They are therefore prone to frustration, impatience, and dissatisfaction when they do not reach their goals.”
According to Wimp.com, the nail-biters were identified as being organizational perfectionists, a personality type marked by a tendency to make detailed plans and overwork themselves, and they often become frustrated by a lack of activity.
They bite their nails to release pent-up energy and frustration.
Are you a perfectionist? Do you bite your nails? Sound off in the comments section!
