Examination of the social-environmental and motivational processes operating in dance contexts: a self-determination theory approach

Hancox, Jennie Elizabeth (2014). Examination of the social-environmental and motivational processes operating in dance contexts: a self-determination theory approach. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Grounded in the self-determination (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 1985, 2000) and achievement goal (Nicholls, 1989) theories this thesis had the broad aim of expanding current knowledge and theoretical understanding of motivational processes. This was achieved via four studies in dance addressing contemporary conceptual and methodological issues raised in the motivation literature. The studies aimed to progress the conceptualisation and measurement of key motivational constructs (i.e., the teacher-created motivational climate and motivation regulations) by examining their application in dance using quantitative and qualitative methods. Additionally, the studies aimed to enhance understanding of the motivational processes via which the motivational climate, as a multi-dimensional construct, predicts dancers’ psychological well- and ill-being. Specifically, the mediating roles of basic psychological needs and motivation regulations between dancers’ perceptions of the motivational climate and affective states were examined. Collectively the thesis supports the central features of the SDT framework, including Duda’s (2013) conceptualisation of the motivational climate as multi-dimensional, and basic psychological need thwarting (as detailed in Bartholomew, Ntoumanis, Ryan, & Thøgersen-Ntoumani, 2011b). The studies in this thesis will substantiate the need for and inform theoretically-grounded interventions which aim to educate teachers in how they can support dancers’ psychological well-being in a variety of dance settings.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):