The Relationship Between Perfectionism and Burnout in Competitive Gymnasts in Manipur Delna Davis

Abstract: This study explores the relationship between perfectionism and burnout in competitive gymnasts, focusing on two key dimensions of perfectionism: personal standards perfectionism (PSP) and evaluative concerns perfectionism (ECP). A correlational research design was employed with a sample of 40 competitive gymnasts from Manipur, India. The Sports Multidimensional Perfectionism Questionnaire (SMPQ) (Hewitt & Flett, 1991) and the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire (ABQ) (Raedeke & Smith, 2001) were used to assess the levels of perfectionism and burnout. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation coefficients, depending on the normality of the data. Results indicated a significant positive correlation between ECP and burnout dimensions, including emotional exhaustion and reduced accomplishment. In contrast, PSP showed no significant correlation with burnout. Gender differences were observed, with female gymnasts exhibiting stronger correlations between ECP and burnout. The findings suggest that gymnasts with high evaluative concerns perfectionism are more susceptible to burnout, emphasizing the need for interventions that address this psychological factor. Implications for coaches and sports psychologists are discussed, with recommendations for future research that could explore the effects of interventions on perfectionism and burnout in athletes.