“Can’t Do It, Don’t Care”: Addressing Avoidance Tendencies in Physical Education with Self-Determination Theory–Based Applications

Abstract

“Can’t do it.” “Don’t care.” Physical educators and scholars have reported the use of these phrases and a wide array of other phrases from students that connote similar sentiments regarding engaging in physical activity. This article examines self-determination theory and its application to address lack of motivation and a wide range of physical activity avoidance tendencies.