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Self-Determination Theory Mechanisms in Men's Long-Term, Objectively Measured Physical Activity and Sedentary
Hugo V Pereira1,2,3, Marlene N Silva1,2,4, Juan J Pulido5
1CIDEFES - Universidade Lusófona, Lisboa, Portugal.
Journal of Physical Activity & Health
|July 4, 2025
Summary
Self-Determination Theory (SDT) effectively promotes physical activity (PA) in sedentary adults. Coach support for psychological needs enhances motivation, leading to increased PA and healthier lifestyles.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral Science
- Health Psychology
- Exercise Science
Background:
- Self-Determination Theory (SDT) provides a robust framework for understanding and facilitating physical activity (PA) behavior change.
- The European Fans in Training (Fit) program leveraged SDT principles to promote healthy lifestyles in men.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the application of SDT in developing the European Fit program.
- To evaluate SDT's adequacy in predicting objectively measured PA and sedentary behaviors.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of psychometric and objectively measured PA data from 560 overweight men (aged 30-65) across four European countries.
- Intervention group data from the gender-sensitized European Fit healthy lifestyle program.
Main Results:
- The SDT-predicted motivational mediation sequence demonstrated an excellent fit with the data.
- Coach support for psychological needs positively influenced need satisfaction, self-determination, and PA (steps, lifestyle activity, sit-to-stand transitions).
- Perceived need-thwarting behaviors negatively impacted need satisfaction and self-determination.
Conclusions:
- Interventions can foster psychological need satisfaction, self-determined motivation, and PA behavior change.
- SDT is a valuable and acceptable theoretical framework for promoting PA in sedentary adults.
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