Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

Abstract

Since its inception, intercollegiate athletics’ conflicting existence vacillates between a history of rich, co-curricular and developmental experiences for young people, and a multi-billion-dollar industry transformed by limitless commercialization, expense and exploitation. The “professionalization” of intercollegiate athletics and blurring of motivational factors influencing participation and persistence threatens its holistic academic and developmental purpose (Duderstadt, 2000, p. 78). This dissertation provides a review of motivational theories, in addition to summarizing numerous contextually relevant intrinsic and extrinsic regulators impacting human behavior. Through a quantitative research methodology this study proposes research broadly investigating intrinsic motivation, seeking to develop a better understanding and establish a stronger emphasis, regarding the intrinsic motivational factors driving student-athletes’ participation and persistence in intercollegiate athletics. Research is particularly timely, relevant and fills a gap in intercollegiate athletics motivational literature given the post-COVID onset of significant change within intercollegiate athletics, to include but not limited to legislative changes in the areas of Name/Image/Likeness (i.e., NIL), unlimited transfers via the transfer portal and revenue sharing. Research hypothesizes significant practical implications for teachers, coaches, leaders, and mentors, as it relates to their role in developing both present-day holistic student-athletes and tomorrow’s leaders of character, competence and consequence.

Year manuscript completed

2024

Year degree awarded

2024

Author's Keywords

Intercollegiate Athletics, Intrinsic Motivation, Factors Impacting Motivation

Degree Awarded

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Department

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Dissertation Committee Chair

Teresa Clark

Committee Member

Dave Gesler

Committee Member

Tim Todd

Document Type

Dissertation

Saal Dissertation (2nd Digital Commons Submission & Wilson Edits thru 8-23-24 2159).pdf (2407 kB)
2nd Digital Commons Submission (Dr. Wilson Edits Included)

Murray State IRB Approval.pdf (161 kB)
Murray State IRB Approval

WSU IRB Approval Letter Exempt_5636_Saal.pdf (173 kB)
Wichita State IRB Approval

WSU & Murray State Email Correspondance - Saal Doctorate Dissertation - Approval.pdf (854 kB)
Murray State & Wichita State IRB Approvals Email Summary

KSaal_Saal Murray State SA letter_TClark_v01302024.pdf (34 kB)
Murray State Athletics Permission to Proceed Letter

KSaal_Saal UK SA letter_TClark_v01302024.pdf (104 kB)
Univeristy of Kentucky Athletics Permission to Proceed

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