Predicting physical activity intentions using a goal perspectives approach: a study of Finnish youth

Physical activity intentions were studied in 12- to 16-year-old Finnish girls (n= 186) and boys (n=215). Theoretical predictions were used to establish a model that was then tested separately for each sex using path analysis. Firstly, it was hypothesised that malleable conceptions of the nature of sport ability positively influence enjoyment in physical activity and intentions to participate in physical activity, mediated by a task-oriented achievement goal independent of variations in perceptions of competence. Secondly, it was hypothesised that fixed conceptions of the nature of ability decrease enjoyment in physical activity and intentions to participate, mediated by an ego-oriented achievement goal and by perceived competence. The modified models were shown to fit the data. Overall, the results showed that 63% (boys) and 45% (girls) of the variance in intentions was explained by the model. The motivational importance of task orientation and, among the boys, perceived physical competence was confirmed with their direct prediction of intentions.