Motivating Moves: Afterschool Program Boosts Physical Activity in Underserved Youth
New Study Shows the Power of Intrinsic Motivation in Enhancing Physical Activity among Adolescents
Self-determination theory (SDT) posits that individuals have intrinsic needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, driving motivation and behaviour. It emphasizes fostering internal motivation to enhance well-being and personal growth, promoting autonomy-supportive environments for optimal psychological development.
In a recent study guided by SDT, researchers looked into the impact of an afterschool program on physical activity in adolescents. The 16-week intervention aimed not only to assess changes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) but also to understand how shifts in intrinsic and autonomous extrinsic motivations influenced these changes.
The study, involving 113 adolescents with an average age of 11.29, revealed compelling insights. Daily MVPA increased by an average of 13 minutes. What's particularly noteworthy is the role of intrinsic motivationāwhile changes in autonomous extrinsic motivation didn't significantly affect MVPA, alterations in intrinsic motivation emerged as a positive and influential factor.
Motivation
Intrinsic motivation arises from internal desires, personal enjoyment, or inherent interest in an activity. Extrinsic motivation is driven by external factors, such as rewards or punishment, rather than inherent satisfaction, often influencing behaviour for external gains or avoidance of consequences.
The findings from this study not only shed light on the success of SDT-based approaches in afterschool programs but also underscore the importance of nurturing intrinsic motivation in promoting daily physical activity among youth in under-resourced environments.
This research carries significant implications for the design and implementation of programs aiming to enhance physical activity in underserved adolescent populations.
By understanding the power of intrinsic motivation, educators and policymakers can tailor interventions that not only boost physical activity levels but also contribute to the overall well-being of adolescents in these settings.
Source: 10.1186/s12889-023-16949-1