Measurement of basic psychological needs for physical activity participation for college students with intellectual disabilities: A validation study

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundMeasurement instruments to understand self‐determined motivation towards physical activity among college students with intellectual disabilities are needed to develop programs to support physical and psychological health and well‐being. The purpose of the current study was to validate a modified questionnaire measuring basic psychological needs towards physical activity among college students with intellectual disabilities.MethodsA total of 108 college students with intellectual disabilities completed the modified questionnaire. Validity and reliability of the questionnaire was examined.ResultsConfirmatory factor analysis demonstrated a six‐factor model had good model fit. Cronbach's alpha values showed acceptable reliability evidence of the instrument as a whole, although some alpha values in subdomains of the instrument were below acceptable values.ConclusionThe modified questionnaire was found to have acceptable validity evidence. Further studies are needed with refinement of answer options and the addition of more questions to increase reliability.