Predictors of Filipino physical education teachers’ intentions in the use of exercise as punishment

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Studies on exercise as punishment (EAP) have focused on students and coaches, but less attention has been given to the perspectives of physical education (PE) teachers. This study examined the factors that influence Filipino PE teachers' intentions to use EAP. Specifically, the study examined the role of socio-demographic characteristics, attitudes, and subjective norms in predicting intentions to use EAP in PE classes. Material and Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data from 397 PE teachers from all 16 regions of the Philippines. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to collect data on the participants' socio-demographic characteristics, attitudes, subjective norms, and intention to use EAP in their classes. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Results. The results showed that attitude was the strongest predictor, followed by gender (male), subjective norms, and age (over 45 years). This analysis suggests that the intention to use EAP is more prevalent among males and those over 45 years. It also shows that attitudes significantly predict these intentions. This suggests that teachers who perceive exercise as a tool for improving physical fitness and enforcing adherence to rules in a physical education setting are more likely to have such intentions. In addition, respondents with higher social pressure in employing exercise as a disciplinary measure in PE classes showed greater intentions to use EAP. Conclusions. The intention to use EAP is more prevalent among male PE teachers, those who are older, and those with positive attitudes towards exercise. Additionally, teachers who feel more social pressure to use exercise as a disciplinary measure are also more likely to intend to use EAP. These findings can be used to inform the development of PE teacher training programs and policies that promote the use of positive reinforcement and other non-punitive methods of discipline in PE classes.