Motivation in Youth Sport and Physical Activity: Developmental Perspectives

Millions of children and youth participate in sports and physical activities, such as organized after-school programs, school physical education, and community classes. We review the developmental sport psychology literature on two major determinants of motivational orientations and behaviors in physical activity settings perceived competence and social influence by parents, coaches, and peers. Studies reveal robust processes and mechanisms of influence that suggest interventions for optimizing self-determined motivation and participation in physical activity. A physically active lifestyle, in turn, strongly contributes to positive developmental and health-related outcomes among youth.