Motivation in Sport

Motivation -- OverviewOne of the more important themes in psychologyWidely researched in sport & exerciseWhat factor(s) lead us to engage in the behaviors that we do?

Katie SpotzInterview w D. Sawyer (iSkysoft)

MotivationMotivation -- Purpose for or cause of an action:Energizes behaviors, &Directs that energy toward a goalIt is the Energy for ActionHuman behavior directed by physiological needs and psychological needs/wantsHunger/thirstNeed for connection/contact/sexNeed for stimulation/explorationNeed to improve self, to live up to ones potential

Motivation TermsIntrinsic motivationMotivation derived from an internal sourceExtrinsic motivationMotivated by some outside forceMotivation is a function of individual via environment

Interactionist model of motivationCombined effect of personal (individual factors) & (environment) situational factorsLewin (1936) B = f(P, E)Example: Bo Eason

Optimal Motivational ProfileWhat might an optimal profile look like?Self-disciplineEnjoymentRealistic self-confidenceAttitude toward failure (growth vs. fixed mindset)Goal-directedOther factors?

Participatory MotivesSome questions:Why do people start participating?Why do people stop participating or decide to continue?Research is primarily conducted with youth sport

Participatory MotivesParents are initial socializing agentsPeers begin to increase in importance around age 10 and continue to increase with age

*Participatory MotivesSelf-Determination TheoryDeveloped at U of Rochester (Deci & Ryan)Not sport-specificA broad framework for studying motivationProposes that we have three basic psychological needs: Autonomy, competence, and relationship

For more, see: Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being.American Psychologist, 55, 68-78.

You never hearDr., how can I motivate my two-year old to play?!Why not?

AutonomyThe urge to be a causal agent in ones own life.Volition, willingness, and choiceInterest and enjoymentActing in concert with deeply held valuesLeads to more creativity and persistence, teamwork, and psychological/physical health(Compare this to controlled motivation, which is the carrot/stick model. Typically, whether coerced or rewarded, the person usually works towards the shortest path to success.)

CompetenceSeeking to achieve masteryThe inherent reward of success/masteryWe should structure sports and practices so that competence is gained (at any level). Think about deliberate practice

RelatednessWe are SOCIAL animals:

We have a need to:ConnectInteractExperience caring for and from others