The Relationship Between Psychological Need Satisfaction and Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Over 6 Months

Abstract

Background:Self-determination theory (SDT) posits satisfaction of psychological needs is key to development of self-determined regulation (Deci & Ryan, 2002). These relationships were prospectively examined in exercise initiates. Methods: 97adults (Mean age 43.43, SD=10.71) participated in 6 months of exercise. The psychological need satisfaction in exercise scale (PNSE), and behaviour regulation in exercise questionnaire (BREQ) were completed at 0, 3, and 6 months. Findings: Positive significant correlations (r) were observed between PNSE and self-determined regulations (rs from .247 to .548) but not controlled regulations (rs from -.140 to .045), except a positive r between relatedness and introjection at 3 months (r .305). Repeated measures MANOVAs revealed interactions of PNSE subscales over time, Eta2 =.37, with increased autonomy and competence and decreased relatedness; and BREQ subscales over time, Eta2 =.63, which mostly increased except external. Discussion: Results provide novel evidence of declining relatedness in an individual exercise program, and support for the role of needs satisfaction in the development of self-determined regulations.