Date of Award

2007

Document Type

Research Paper

First Advisor

Ann Hickey

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to give a general overview of motivation theory in sport psychology. Beginning with self-confidence in sport, the basic models will be presented, showing how each built upon the last to create a more and more comprehensive and reliable structure for the measurement and evaluation of motivational style. From there, the models of causal attribution, which have evolved from Heider’s 1958 unidimensional structure to Weiner’s revised multidimensional models, will be covered. Nicholls’ (1984) goal perspective theory will then be discussed with emphasis on types of goal orientation and their positive and negative connotations. The self-determination theory will then be introduced explaining the concept of intrinsic motivation in further depth and touching on the most recent theory of intrinsic motivation, the Integrated Theory of Motivation. The measurement and identification of FLOW state is then covered as an expansion, and example, of an intrinsic experience. Finally, a brief look will be taken at the phenomenon of psychological momentum and its dubious place in sport psychology.

Comments

WSP Major: Psychology of Motivation in Sport

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