INTRINSIC MOTIVATORS FOR PARTICIPATION AND PERSISTENCE IN INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS

Author

Kevin SaalFollow

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

Dissertation Committee Chair

Teresa Clark

Committee Member

Dave Gesler

Committee Member

Tim Todd

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Recommended Citation

Saal, Kevin, "INTRINSIC MOTIVATORS FOR PARTICIPATION AND PERSISTENCE IN INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS" (2024). Murray State Theses and Dissertations. 358.
https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/etd/358