Introduction
Motivation is often regarded as a primary driver for behavioral change. However, it is commonly extrinsic sources and rewards that are typically perceived as the most encouraging. When it comes to physical activity, such sources may include achieving a specific physique to gain social approval, winning competitions, being praised by trainers and coaches, and acquiring fame and popularity. However, the theoretical framework of self-determination entails that intrinsic factors are the elements that maximize persistence, resilience, and desire to make a difference.
Self-determination is based on the idea that both internal and autonomous external encouragement are relevant in succeeding in a task of fulfilling a goal. Specifically, three concepts are highlighted: autonomy, competence, and relatedness (Ryan & Deci, 2020). The first notion reflects the idea of having a choice and making choices based on personal interests and pursuits. Competence refers to the phenomenon in which individuals perceive themselves as competent and skilled enough to engage in the required activity. Last but not least, the last term aligns with engagement with others, connection, and feeling a sense of belonging.
The theory does not deny the importance of outside factors. However, extrinsic elements are to align with autonomous ones (Ryan & Deci, 2020). For example, weight lifting can be a pursuit of muscle growth to attract attention, or it can be pursued to become disciplined, strong, and athletic. The selected theory can be applied to John, a 60-year-old male who has recently retired and is willing to transition from a sedentary lifestyle to a more active one. In his case, the theory will help establish an exercise plan tailored to his preferences, build his confidence, and foster a connection with like-minded individuals.
Case
John is a 60-year-old man who has recently retired after working as an accountant for a large corporation for the last 35 years. John noticed that his mobility had started to be less efficient several years ago, and his BMI puts him in the overweight category. The required behavioral changes include increasing activity, minimizing sitting time, engaging in exercise, and participating in organized sports initiatives for other amateur athletes.
The goal is to motivate John to choose activities he enjoys, such as jogging, swimming, hiking, or walking. In addition, an exercise plan developed by professionals, tailored to age and BMI, will be implemented with twice-per-week sessions. Subsequently, John will be referred to a community athletic initiative in which other members participate in sports and engage in activity interventions to foster a sense of joint effort.
Skills
The first skill that will be applied to encourage the client to adhere to a healthier lifestyle is self-talk. It reflects the idea that the inner dialogue generating confidence and resilience will maximize Josh’s confidence in his success. This relates to the aforementioned theory, as it will lead to a lack of intrinsic power and motivation.
Additionally, leadership is an excellent tool that can help him maintain a positive, mindful outlook on his health journey. According to researchers, the skill is linked to autonomous goal-setting (Proios et al., 2020). Hence, the client will be the leader in his objective setting and fulfillment. Last but not least, through attention management, John will apply mindfulness techniques to focus on his progress and maintain awareness.
Challenges
The first challenge that can occur is the stereotyping of older, overweight people when it comes to participation in sports. Relevant sources highlight that stigma negatively affects activity levels (Thiel et al., 2020). Exercising in public places as well as in groups may be challenging due to John’s self-perception. Another factor that can hinder success is fear of injury, as the individual is new to sports and concerned about his age. He may avoid more intense activities perceived as potentially dangerous.
Stakeholders
Besides John, his family members and loved ones are stakeholders in his wellness initiative, as their support can positively impact his outlook on sports. In addition, community members who will exercise alongside John as he enrolls in a group initiative will provide peer motivation. Last but not least, health professionals, including deontologists and exercise physiologists, can be classified as stakeholders, depending on the client’s preference, if they provide guidance and establish a path to follow.
Ethical Implications
It is critical to uphold the principle of autonomy and allow the client to decide on the goals and initiatives to be employed in his program. Hence, exercising is to be approached intrinsically, with John’s motivation as the driving force for change rather than external pressure and rules. Another implication is beneficence, as it is vital to ensure that the applied measures benefit the client rather than put him at risk. For example, high-impact or rigorous activities may not be advantageous for individuals with certain conditions (Reid et al., 2021). As a result, it is important to ensure that no underlying health conditions are present.
Summary
Self-determination is a framework based on internal drivers, which is why it can be effectively incorporated intoJohn’s program. As a recently retired man aiming to change his lifestyle, he can benefit from incorporating preferential activities, following an exercise plan, and working out with fellow community members. Stigma and fear of injury may increase the risk, and ethical principles, including autonomy and beneficence, should be incorporated into the intervention. Nonetheless, given the implications for fellow stakeholders, John can change his mindset through tools such as leadership, self-talk, and attention regulation.
References
Proios, I., Fotidaou, E., Goganis, G., Batsiou, S., & Proios, M. (2020). An exploratory study of self-leadership in physical activity settings. European Journal of Physical Education and Sport Science, 6(3).
Reid, H., Ridout, A. J., Tomaz, S. A., Kelly, P., & Jones, N. (2021). Benefits outweigh the risks: A consensus statement on the risks of physical activity for people living with long-term conditions. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 56(8), 427–438.
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2020). Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation from a self-determination theory perspective: Definitions, theory, practices, and future directions. Contemporary Educational Psychology, 61.
Thiel, A., John, J. M., Carl, J., & Thedinga, H. K. (2020). Weight stigma experiences and physical (in)activity: A biographical analysis. Obesity Facts, 13(3), 386–402.