A Retrospective Study on Students’ Perceived Experiences in Physical Education: Exploring Beliefs, Emotions, and Physical Activity Outcomes

Abstract

Purpose: This study utilized the control-value theory of achievement emotions to investigate relationships between retroactive physical education (PE) beliefs and emotions with adulthood physical activity (PA) attitudes and behaviors. Method: An exploratory structural equation model was employed to evaluate participants’ (N = 381) PE emotions, antecedents, and outcomes. Results: Control, intrinsic value, and extrinsic value antecedents predicted several emotions. PE enjoyment facilitated positive PA attitudes, whereas boredom and shame predicted negative PA attitudes. Shame predicted lower physical self-concept in students. Moderate to vigorous PA was traced positively with enjoyment and negatively from relief. Several indirect relationships were also observed that further support the control-value theory of achievement emotions. Conclusions: Emotions are a response to learning and finding value in PE, which clearly impacts PA-related beliefs and behaviors into adulthood. Considerations on the externally driven nature of PE outcomes (i.e., standards/performance) are needed given the juxtaposition for also targeting suggested goals like intrinsic value and enjoyment.