Examining the social cognitive determinants of collegiate recreational sport involvement and outcomes

Abstract

ABSTRACT Sedentary behavior and health concerns are rising among young adults, making it necessary to understand antecedents of physical activity to promote health programming. This study integrates multiple theoretical frameworks to holistically test antecedents (self-efficacy, achievement goals) and consequences (social, intellectual, fitness benefits) of recreational sport involvement. Questionnaire responses from collegiate recreational sport (CRS) participants were used to test two structural models, and one good-fitting model was achieved. Additional effects were interpreted, indicating mastery-approach orientations are important for achieving positive benefits of recreational sport. Self-efficacy was found a more important mediator than CRS involvement for achieving positive benefits of recreational sport. These findings extend theoretical debate surrounding self-efficacy and achievement goals as social cognitive determinants of behavior. Practically, since individuals are more likely to find recreational sports beneficial when striving for mastery-related goals, practitioners should develop a motivational climate that encourages participants to strive toward improving past performance on tasks.