"I've got plenty of energy when I'm doing something I want to do": applying self-determination theory to exercise motivation in people with prostate cancer.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer adversely affects quality of life. Whilst exercise is effective for ameliorating many side effects, most people are inactive, with lack of motivation a key barrier. Self-determination theory (SDT) specifies the quality, rather than quantity, of motivation as essential for optimal engagement. We aimed to explore exercise motivation in men on ADT through the theoretical lens of SDT.

Methods

As part of a mixed-method longitudinal study, semi-structured interviews exploring exercise behaviour and perceptions, were conducted with people receiving ADT for prostate cancer. Thematic analysis identified motivation themes aligned with SDT concepts.

Results

Twenty-four men participated (median age 74 years; ECOG 0: 9

SUBMITTER: Naismith H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11968458 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature