Does Passion mediate the Effect of Character Strengths on the Resilience of Athletes?

Abstract

This study investigates (a) the relationship between character strengths, passion and resilience in athletes in a sample of Spanish passionate athletes (elite, federated and recreational), and (b) if passion for sport mediates the relationship between character strengths and resilience. Using a cross-sectional design, participants (N = 480) completed measures of character strengths, passion, and resilience. Both Principal Components and Confirmatory Factor Analyses were conducted with character strengths, and five factors were extracted. All character strengths factors related positively to resilience. Harmonious passion (but not obsessive passion) partially mediated the relationship between all character strengths factors and resilience. Strengths and limitations of the study, as well as its implications are discussed.