Perfectionism is data-driven... at least what we have seen seems to be; that is, a 98% score means "I should have tried harder... I was almost there" and having to apply herself to a research paper means "I must be really stupid, because this is REALLY hard..."
Does that help?
Yes, perhaps it isn't important but I define perfectionism much more broadly. Sure, the 98% on the test and I suck is part of it. But, I think we can also see perfectionism in other areas. That can be in failure to accurately give yourself credit for good characteristics or good deeds. It can be having unrealistic expectations for yourself and other people.
Perhaps the distinctions aren't important but it might be worthwhile for the original poster to take a quick read of a few articles about perfectionism just in case understanding that may give some ideas for helping her daughter through this period.
