Big Five personality traits on athletes' perfectionism using a person-centered approach

Athletes' perfectionism is influenced by personality, which in turn leads to differences in athletic performance. This study investigates the intricate relationship between perfectionism and the Big Five personality traits, particularly within the context of athletes. We apply fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to survey data to identify which personality combinations lead to perfectionism. The study sample selected through purposive sampling from various sports disciplines within Macao and Anhui Province. Personality traits and perfectionism levels were assessed using the Simplified Chinese Big Five Personality Questionnaire (CBF-PI) and the Chinese Frost Multidimensional Perfectionism Questionnaire (CFMPS). Results indicate that neuroticism and conscientiousness are crucial in predicting perfectionistic concerns and perfectionistic strivings, respectively. Three personality configurations leading to perfectionistic concerns were identified, with high neuroticism, high conscientiousness, low extraversion, and low openness being core conditions. Four configurations leading to perfectionistic strivings were identified, with low neuroticism, high conscientiousness, high agreeableness, and either high extraversion or high openness as core conditions. The study reveals the complex interactions between personality traits and challenges the variable-centered research approach. The results underscore the importance of understanding the multidimensionality and complexity of perfectionism in athletes and offer directions for further research.