Motivation in Sport

Motivation -- Overview One of the more important themes in psychology Widely researched in sport & exercise What factor(s) lead us to engage in the behaviors that we do?

Katie Spotz Interview w D. Sawyer (iSkysoft)

Motivation Motivation -- Purpose for or cause of an action: »Energizes behaviors, & »Directs that energy toward a goal »It is the Energy for Action Human behavior directed by physiological needs and psychological needs/wants »Hunger/thirst »Need for connection/contact/sex »Need for stimulation/exploration »Need to improve self, to live up to one’s potential

Motivation Terms Intrinsic motivation »Motivation derived from an internal source Extrinsic motivation »Motivated by some outside force Motivation is a function of individual via environment

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

Optimal Motivational Profile What might an optimal profile look like? »Self-discipline »Enjoyment »Realistic self-confidence »Attitude toward failure (growth vs. fixed mindset) »Goal-directed »Other factors?

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

Participatory Motives Parents are initial socializing agents Peers begin to increase in importance around age 10 and continue to increase with age

11 Participatory Motives »Self-Determination Theory –Developed at U of Rochester (Deci & Ryan) –Not sport-specific –A broad framework for studying motivation –Proposes 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,

You never hear… “Dr., how can I motivate my two-year old to play?!” Why not?

Autonomy The urge to be a ¨causal agent” in one’s own life. »Volition, willingness, and choice »Interest and enjoyment »Acting in concert with deeply held values »Leads 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.)

Competence Seeking to achieve mastery The inherent reward of success/mastery We should structure sports and practices so that competence is gained (at any level). Think about deliberate practice…

Relatedness We are SOCIAL animals: We have a need to: »Connect »Interact »Experience caring for and from others