Impact of an intervention program based on self-determination theory on basic psychological needs, intention to be physically active and life satisfaction of high school students : A longitudinal study

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Abstract

Based on Self-determination Theory (SDT), this study, carried out over a year, analyzed the effects of an educational intervention program on the motivation, life satisfaction and interest in physical fitness in students during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 114 high-school students participated in the study (Mage=17.18, SD=1.05), which followed a high-dimensional one-group repeated-measures design. The students underwent two iterations of the SDT-based program: one that did not factor in the pandemic (T2), and another that did (T3). Data was gathered using validated self-reporting questionnaires administered both before (T1) and after the intervention (T2, T3). The results showed that the intervention program managed not only to maintain the motivational levels of competence and relatedness with regards to Physical Education (PE), but also improved levels of autonomy; maintained levels of interest in being physically active and life satisfaction. Moreover, the program reduced the initial gender differences in the interest in being physically active and the need for relatedness. Finally, results did not show statistically significant differences between sex after the interventions carried out (T2, T3). In conclusion, these results underline the success of the program in achieving its general objective of fostering intrinsic motivation and life satisfaction through physical education, effectively adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic.