Abstract
Self-determination theory (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 1985) offers a unique theoretical framework to understand the multidimensional motivational processes in sport and exercise ; domain. The purpose of this study was to identify differences in motivational constructs of SDT in a sample of Czech university students with respect to gender and level of sport participation.
Participants (N=244) completed a Czech version of the Sport motivation scale which measures different types of intrinsic motivation (to know, to accomplish, to experience stimulation), extrinsic motivation (external regulation, introjection, identification), as well as amotivation. Results of multivariate analysis of variance showed that men scored significantly higher than women only in external regulation and amotivation.
Difference between recreational and competitive athletes was significant only in external regulation with higher average scores in competitive group. Interestingly, we did not find any differences in intrinsic motivation with respect to gender.
Inconsistency of results of various studies points to the need for more detailed analysis of the relationship between competition, gender and intrinsic motivation as well as mediators of this relationship.