Self-determination theory informed research for promoting physical activity: Contributions, debates, and future directions

Abstract

In this review we evaluate the applications of self-determination theory (SDT) research to promote motivation for physical activity (PA) and exercise. The evidence suggests that SDT-informed interventions are often effective at changing health behaviors, including PA/exercise, and associated health outcomes. The effect sizes are small to moderate and are often mediated by increases in autonomous motivation (primarily), interpersonal support for basic psychological needs, and competence need satisfaction. We also identify conceptual debates within the SDT literature and between SDT and other literatures, and discuss their relevance with respect to PA. We particularly focus on tripartite conceptualizations of interpersonal styles and psychological needs, whether there are more than three basic psychological needs, and the use of financial incentives and competition to promote PA. Our review also provides future conceptual and methodological directions for SDT-based research, building on advances in technology (e.g., generative Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models) and the broader field of behavioral science (e.g., optimization designs, system-level interventions, behavior change intervention ontologies).