Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the predictive strength of adolescents’ situational motivation to their physical activity physical activity levels in physical education. Method: A total of 259 middle school students ranging from 11 to 14 years old participated in the study. Participants completed the Situational Motivation Scale in one class. Their PA levels were then assessed by pedometers and Actical® accelerometers for three days. Physical activity levels were quantified as steps per minute for pedometers and percentages of time in sedentary behavior as well as light physical activity and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity for accelerometers. Results: Multiple regression analyses yielded adolescents’ intrinsic motivation was the only positive predictor for their time in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (ß = .22, p < .05), and a significant negative predictor in sedentary behavior (ß = -.28, p < .01). Additionally, amotivation negatively predicted steps per minute (ß = -.15, p < .05). Conclusion: Physical educators should identify effective strategies to enhance adolescents’ intrinsic motivation.

Keywords: amotivation, external regulation, identified regulation, intrinsic motivation, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity

Category: Secondary P.E.

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