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The temporal relationship between perceived competence and self-determined motivation
1Department of Psychology, University of Quebec, Montreal.
The Journal of Social Psychology
|December 1, 1994
Summary
This study found that perceived competence in elite adolescent hockey players influences their motivation over time. While competence appears to be a primary driver, motivation may also impact competence perceptions.
Area of Science:
- Sports Psychology
- Adolescent Development
- Motivation Science
Background:
- Perceived competence is widely believed to influence motivation.
- Limited longitudinal research exists on this relationship in naturalistic settings.
- Understanding this dynamic is crucial for athlete development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To longitudinally examine the relationship between perceived competence and self-determined motivation in elite adolescent athletes.
- To determine the directionality of influence between competence and motivation over a hockey season.
- To investigate these constructs in a real-world sports environment.
Main Methods:
- Surveyed 64 male adolescent hockey players at an elite level.
- Assessed perceived competence and self-determined motivation at two time points: early season (T1) and end of regular season (T2).
- Employed a longitudinal research design to track changes over time.
Main Results:
- Results partially supported the hypothesis that perceived competence predicts motivation over time.
- Evidence suggests that perceived competence is a significant determinant of motivation.
- The study did not rule out a reciprocal influence, where motivation might also affect competence perceptions.
Conclusions:
- Perceived competence is a key factor influencing motivation in elite adolescent athletes.
- A bidirectional relationship between competence and motivation may exist over time.
- Findings have implications for coaching strategies and athlete support systems.