Predictive Role of Physical Education Motivation

Abstract

In this study we examined adolescents’ physical activity (PA) stability as well as individual differences in PA across grades 7–9. In addition, we tested the predictive role of adolescents’ self-determination and goal orientations in physical education at grade 6 in relation to their PA development. Adolescents’ (N = 812) self-reported PA was measured five times and physical education motivation once. Results revealed a decreasing trajectory of PA, with individual differences diminishing over time. Although boys’ showed a consistently higher PA level, gender did not moderate the change in PA. Finally, self-determination and task orientation (boys only) predicted PA levels but did not predict change in PA.

Key words:

• achievement goals
• gender
• self-determined motivation