There is a growing body of research supporting the positive effects of physical activity and exercise on both psychological and physiological well-being. However, most people do not engage in regular exercise. Moreover, research shows that individuals who initiate a new exercise program drop out within three to six months. This begs the question, how do we get people to start and adhere to a regular exercise regimen?

It is generally accepted that participation in sport will lead to positive outcomes including increased psycho-social development and physical health. However, research shows that sport participation can lead to damaged self-esteem, anxiety, depression, body image concerns, and disordered eating. This begs the question, how do we promote optimal functioning and well-being of athletes in the world of sports?

The purpose of this workshop is to explore how Self-Determination Theory (SDT) can be used in practice to (1) promote physical activity/exercise based on the principles of Autonomy Support and ‘Motivational Interviewing’; (2) promote optimal functioning and well-being of athletes. The workshop will include the following: 1) a brief introduction 2) discussion in smaller groups 3) presentation of the group discussions.

Recommended readings

Bartholomew, K. J. (2011). THE ROLE OF INTERPERSONAL CONTROL AND NEED THWARTING IN THE PREDICTION OF ILL-BEING IN SPORT: A SELF-DETERMINATION THEORY APPROACH. University of Birmingham: Thesis for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

Chatzisarantis, N. L. D., & Hagger, M. S. (2009). Effects of an intervention based on self-determination theory on self-reported leisure-time physical activity participation. Psychology and Health, 24(1), 29-48.

Ng, J. Y. Y., Ntoumanis, N., Thogersen-Ntoumani, C., Deci, E. L., Ryan, R. M., Duda, J. L., & Williams, G. C. (2012). Self-Determination Theory Applied to Health Contexts: A Meta-Analysis. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 7, 325-340.

Sarrazin, P. G., Tessier, D. P., Pelletier, L. G., Trouilloud, D. O., & Chanal, J. P. (2006). The effects of teachers’ expectations about students’ motivation on teachers’ autonomy-supportive and controlling behaviors. International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 4, 283-301.

Su, Y-L., & Reeve, J. (2011). A Meta-analysis of the Effectiveness of Intervention Programs Designed to Support Autonomy. Educational Psychology Review, 23, 159-188.