Young people's motivational profiles in physical activity: A cluster analysis

A great deal has been written about the motivation of young people in physi cal activity, and the determinants of activity for this age group have been identified as a research priority. Despite this, there are few large-scale studies identifying "types" or "clusters" of young people based on their s cores on validated motivation inventories. This study reports the results o f a cluster analysis of a large national sample (n = 2,510) of 12- to 15-ye ar-olds using contemporary approaches to physical activity motivation: achi evement goal orientations, self-determination theory (including amotivation ), the nature of athletic ability beliefs, and perceived competence. Five m eaningful clusters were identified reflecting two highly motivated and two less well-motivated clusters, as well as a clearly amotivated cluster. Grou pings were validated by investigating differences in physical activity part icipation and perceptions of physical self-worth. Some clusters reflected a ge and gender differences. The results provide valuable information for lik ely strategies to promote physical activity in young people.