Effect of Situational Interest and Social Support on College Students’ Physical Activity Motivation: A Mixed Methods Analysis

Authors

  • Joseph O. Otundo University of Arkansas at Little Rock
  • Susan K. MacGregor Louisiana State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TPE-2019-V76-I2-8502

Keywords:

Situational interest, social support, autonomy, competence

Abstract

Given the low levels of engagement in physical activity among young adults, this mixed methods study was designed to increase our understanding of the factors that influence their participation. Interest motivation theory provided the framework for examining the multi­dimensionality of situational interest as a component that is predictive of engagement in physical activity. College students enrolled in tennis classes at a large research university were recruited to participate in the research. A survey assessing the sources of situational interest was administered to 82 students, and eight students were interviewed so that we could obtain a deeper understanding of the quantitative results. A stepwise multiple regression model revealed four sources (enjoyment, novelty, exploration, and attention demand) that operated as predictors of total situational interest (r2 = .93). From the interpretive analysis of the interview data, three themes emerged (autonomy, competence, and social support). Given these findings, recommendations for modifying physical activity classes are provided.

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Author Biographies

Joseph O. Otundo, University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Joseph Otundo is an assistant professor of Health Education and Promotion in the school of Counseling, Human Performance, and Rehabilitation at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, AR, USA. 

Joseph's research is Motivational Constructs of Physical Activity, Health Education and physical Activity Pedagogy, and Green Exercise. Secondary research is glogal and cultural factors and health education and promotion.  

Susan K. MacGregor, Louisiana State University

Susan MacGregor is an associate professor in the school of Education. Susan coordinates the graduate program in Applied Research, Measurement and Evaluation.

Published

2019-03-19

Issue

Section

Articles