Motivation and Behavioral Regulation of Physical Activity in Middle School Students.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

This study aimed to examine whether intrinsic motivation and behavioral self-regulation are related to physical activity during middle school.

Method

Structural equation modeling was applied in cross-sectional and longitudinal tests of self-determination theory.

Results

Consistent with theory, hypothesized relations among variables were supported. Integrated regulation and intrinsic motivation were most strongly correlated with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity measured by an accelerometer. Results were independent of a measure of biological maturity. Construct validity and equivalence of measures were confirmed longitudinally between the sixth and seventh grades and between boys and girls, non-Hispanic Black and White children and overweight and normal-w

SUBMITTER: Dishman RK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4515416 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature