Coaches' Interpersonal Behaviours and Athletes' Basic Psychological Need States: Refined Conceptualisation and Measurement Based on a Self-Determination Theory Perspective

Abstract

Athletes’ perceptions of coaches’ interpersonal behaviours and their own experiential need states determine the quality of their motivation in sport (Self-determination Theory; Ryan & Deci, 2017). Over five empirical studies, two new self-report measures were developed based on refined conceptualisations of these key constructs, and initial validity evidence was presented for their scores. Results facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the relations between perceived interpersonal behaviours, need states and outcomes of well/ill-being in sport, and potentially other life domains.