Predicting Satisfaction in Physical Education From Motivational Climate and Self-determined Motivation

Abstract

The purpose of this research study was to determine to what extent the motivational climate perceived by students in Physical Education (PE) classes predicts self-determined motivation, and satisfaction with physical education classes. Questionnaires were administered to 758 high school students aged 13-18 years. We used the Spanish versions of the PE adaptations of instruments: Sport Satisfaction Instrument, Sport Motivation Scale and Learning and Performance Orientations in PE Classes Questionnaire. We conducted a descriptive statistical analysis and correlations with structural equation modeling. The results showed the highest mean values in satisfaction/fun, intrinsic motivation and motivational task-oriented climate. By using a structural equation model, we found a positive association between a task-oriented climate and students’ intrinsic motivation (γ=.69) and their satisfaction in PE classes (β=.56).