A Self-determination Theory approach to the study of body image concerns, self-presentation and self-perceptions in a sample of aerobic instructors.
This study examined motivational predictors of body image concerns, self-presentation and self-perceptions using Self-determination Theory as a guiding framework. Aerobic instructors (N = 149) completed questionnaires measuring general need satisfaction, exercise motivational regulations, body image concerns, social physique anxiety and self-perceptions. Introjected regulation predicted all outcome variables in the expected direction. Intrinsic motivation positively predicted physical self-worth. Further, autonomy need satisfaction negatively predicted body image concerns. Finally, differences existed in need satisfaction, introjected regulation, self-perceptions and social physique anxiety between those at risk of developing eating disorders and those not at risk. The results underline the importance of overall and exercise-specific feelings of self-determination in dealing with body image concerns and low self-perceptions of aerobics instructors.
Thøgersen-Ntoumani
Cecilie
C
University of Birmingham, UK.
Ntoumanis
Nikos
N
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001828:Body Image; D015992:Body Mass Index; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D010806:Physical Education and Training; D012649:Self Concept; D020377:Self Efficacy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom; D000078329:Workforce