Behavioral engagement and intention to be physically active among Brazilian adolescents: a self-determination theory approach

Authors

  • Cássia Maria Hess Universidade Estadual de Campinas
  • Paula Cristina da Costa Silva
  • Gizele Eleonora Bernabé de Freitas
  • Evelia Franco Álvarez
  • Eliana de Toledo

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5016/s1980-6574e10231010

Abstract

Aim: The experience that students have in physical education class is fundamental to promote an activelifestyle. The aim of this work was to test a predictive model of behavioral engagement and intention to be physically active among physical education students from the self-determination theory in the Brazilian context. Methods: For this purpose, a total of 414 adolescents between 12 and 16 years old participated in the study by answering several previously validated questionnaires. The findings of this study confirmed the hypothesis that the satisfaction of each of the basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence and relatedness) would be positively associated with each of the autonomous regulations (intrinsic motivation, integrated regulation and identified regulation) and these, in turn, would be positively related to behavioral commitment and the intention to be physically active. Results: The results of this work show the importance of generating a positive motivational climate in the physical education classroom both to improve students’ involvement in class and to favor their intention to be physically active. Conclusion: The results are discussed considering the mechanisms that explain the role of the different basic psychological needs and motivational regulations on behavioral patterns.

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Published

2025-12-18

Issue

Vol. 31 No. 1 (2025): Continuous Publishing

Section

Original Articles

Categories

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