Abstract:
This study's objective was to examine how thirteen year-old females perceive and
describe their lived experiences of being physically active in school PE (physical
education) and organized youth sport settings through a self-determination theory (Deci
& Ryan, 1985) lens. Motivational factors and links between both settings were discussed
with five participants using in-depth interviews. Participants discussed factors that
facilitated and disrupted their motivation to be active in PE and sport settings. The selfdetermination
theory was used as a framework in this qualitative study and results are
based on participants' own words and perspectives. Results indicate that participants'
positive experiences in school PE and organized sport have the potential to meet their
needs of autonomy, competence and relatedness. The autonomy supportive behaviours of
social agents, feeling challenged and successful at activities and the strong relationships
formed in both settings are all things that motivated young people in this study to
continue being physically active throughout high-school and into adulthood.
