Perfectionism Levels in Competitive Triathletes: Sex Differences

Abstract

Perfectionism is a multidimensional trait with both adaptive (e.g., high standards, planning, organisation) and maladaptive components (e.g., fear of mistakes and doubts). In endurance sports such as triathlon, examining perfectionism may help identify psychological differences between male and female athletes. This study described perfectionism levels in licensed competitive triathletes (N = 171; 57 women, 114 men) and examined sex differences across dimensions. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Spanish version of the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS). Both the six-factor and four-factor models were analysed. Results showed higher scores for women across all dimensions, although statistically significant differences were found only in Organisation (p < .001; Ĝ = 0.573). Differences in total, adaptive, and maladaptive perfectionism were small and not statistically significant. These findings highlight the importance of analysing specific dimensions of perfectionism rather than relying solely on overall scores in competitive triathlon.