Abstract
The main aim of the study is to explore further the relationship between self-determination and doping in youth sport. Theoretical framework for the study has been provided by the self-determination theory that hypothesizes an existence of a self-determination continuum ranging from amotivation (i.e. absence of motivation), through extrinsic motivation based on seeking external rewards or avoiding punishment, to intrinsic motivation stemming from the participation in the activity itself.
In our research, we hypothesized a relationship between the dimensions of the self-regulation continuum and doping related variables, such as acceptance of cheating, attitudes towards doping, doping intention, and use of doping. The results suggest a relationship between the components of the self-determination continuum and some doping-related variables in youth sport.
It appears that, for adolescents, intrinsic motivation represents the most important source of motivation for sport participation. The results of correlation and regression analyses suggest that amotivation and extrinsic tivation are motivational states positively related to acceptance of cheating, positive attitudes towards doping, doping intention, and doping use.
Identified regulation and integrated regulation appeared to be related to negative attitudes towards doping, doping refusal, rejection of cheating in sport, and keeping victory in proportions. It seems that motivation climate emphasizing more self-determined forms of regulation may act as a prevention of doping-related attitudes and behavior.