Validation of the 21-item Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale (PALMS) among Finnish late adolescents

This multi-study investigation examined the validity of the Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale (PALMS) among 16- to 18-year-old Finnish participants. Specifically, we examined factorial structure, reliability, measurement invariance, convergent and predictive validity in respect to reported physical activity.

In Study 1, 285 participants completed the 40-item PALMS, and in Study 2, 638 adolescents completed a shorter measure derived from Study 1, along with the Behavioural Regulation in Sport Questionnaire (BRSQ).

Factor analysis in Study 1 indicated that a short seven-factor measure, called PALMS-21, adequately captures adolescent participation motives. Study 2 demonstrated acceptable model fit (factor loadings >.30, RMSEA = .046, SRMR = .040), and reliability values above .740. Factor correlations between PALMS-21 and BRSQ supported convergent validity, with high positive correlations between enjoyment and intrinsic motivation. Measurement invariance was established across gender, age, and sport modality. Results showed evidence of predictive validity of the PALMS-21 in explaining variance in reported physical activity. Mediation analysis demonstrated a positive indirect effect from enjoyment to reported physical activity, via intention to be physically active.

Taken together results suggest that the PALMS-21 is a valid and reliable measure of motives to engage in physical activity and sport. As such, the PALMS-21 could be used to provide personalized advice to individuals or to monitor the dynamics in participation motives over time, which could guide the development of effective interventions.