16. SDT in Athletics

This chapter focuses on just some of the sport-related self-determination theory research. The idea that play and physical activity is intrinsically motivating is well supported but when physical activity morphs into organized athletics, there are many other factors (coaches, engaged parents, spectators, rewards, contracts, scholarships) to consider that might reduce intrinsic motivation. Research has supported the ideas that if rewards are given in a controlling, conditional manner, they will undermine intrinsic motivation and are associated with lower levels of need satisfaction. For example, athletic scholarships are perceived to be controlling of time and talents, particularly in sports where they are common (e.g., basketball, football) decreases in intrinsic motivation can be expected. Financial rewards can also undermine motivation for professional athletes. The motivational climate created and how feedback is provided will impact motivation as well. Carpentier and Mageau (Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology 38:45–58, 2016) reported that the more autonomy supportive the feedback, the more autonomous motivation, self-confidence, and satisfaction of the needs for autonomy and relatedness. Finally, the coach–athlete relationship and its influence on motivation are introduced. Numerous studies have shown that coaches can be trained to autonomy supportive which led to need satisfaction and enhanced performance.