Perfectionism, performance and goal-related variables in running competitions – A three-sample examination in a systematic self-replication framework

Recently, more ecologically valid research on the relationship between perfectionism and performance has been emerging. However, the theory-derived notions of perfectionism being associated with higher expectations about performance, and more rigid goals in sport still require empirical evidence; the question whether perfectionism aids or impedes objective goal-realization remains open, as well. To this end, the present study tested the associations between perfectionism, anticipated performance, rigidness of goals, and subsequent performance and objective goal-realization, within the systematic self-replication framework – in runners competing on three distances: 10 km (N = 153), half-marathon (N = 156), and marathon (N = 305). Athletes completed measures of perfectionism (perfectionistic strivings and perfectionistic concerns) and goal-related variables in the week prior to the competition. Results showed that perfectionistic strivings were clearly and consistently associated with lower goal elasticity and higher anticipated and actual performance. Perfectionistic concerns did not show a consistent pattern of significant associations for any of the outcomes. However, they were related to lower anticipated and actual performance in the marathon runners, representing one of the rare instances of perfectionistic concerns directly affecting performance. Regarding the question whether perfectionism affects goal-realization, the findings were mixed, with the effects of perfectionism being significant only in one sample, where the goal-realization was the highest. Overall, the present findings provide evidence for individual variability that should be taken into account when working with perfectionistic athletes on goal-setting, as they may have the tendency to set relatively excessive and rigid goals by default. notReviewed other