Physical Activity and Youth

Physical activity among youth: the role of motivation and identity

Physical activity is an essential part of a healthy life style and an important mean in the prevention of overweight. This project focuses on physical activity motives and identity development among young people. Insights from self-determination theory and theories about self- and social identity are used to study leisure time physical activity behavior among this group.

Key research questions are:

  • What are the main motivations for young people to participate in leisure time physical activity?
  • Which motives are associated with more frequent participation and better exercise adherence?
  • How does identity development evolve around physical activity and what role does identity play in leisure time physical activity participation?
To study these questions, a short paper-pencil questionnaire has been developed and distributed among high school students.