Predictors of Sports Perfectionism, Burnout Juxtaposed with Student-Athletes’ Sports Performance: A Correlational Analysis

Abstract

The student-athletes’ involvement in any sports competition has been integral to their lives, bringing school pride. Hence, this study was conducted to determine the relationship between sports perfectionism and burnout as predictors of student-athletes' sports performance. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, involving a computed sample size of 116 student-athletes. Adapted structured survey questionnaires were used to assess the levels of sports perfectionism, burnout, and sports performance. The frequency and percentage, weighted mean, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were utilized to analyze the data statistically. The research recognized that the presence of athletes’ balanced demographics and broad sports involvement creates a solid foundation for analyzing perfectionism, burnout, and performance. Overall, athletes exhibit adaptive perfectionism characterized by high standards and organized routines, while maintaining manageable levels of concern. The study found a moderate positive association between perfectionism and burnout, driven mainly by perfectionistic concerns such as fear of mistakes and doubt. The link between burnout and performance was weak, suggesting that athletes’ short-term performance remains resilient even when psychological strain is present. The strongest pathway in the analysis was between perfectionism and performance, where adaptive striving predicted stronger performance behavior. This pattern aligns with positive perfectionism frameworks, which associate high standards and disciplined routines. The findings emphasize that perfectionism supports performance when directed constructively but becomes harmful when driven by external pressure or fear of mistakes. Finally, the results highlight the value of supportive school sport environments that promote autonomy, competence, SMART goal setting, and mental skills training.