Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation as Determinants of Student-Athlete Engagement

Abstract

This study investigates how motivational and contextual factors influence sports participation among university athletes in Pakistan. University students often face academic pressure, psychological stress, and environmental limitations, which serve as major obstacles to their active participation in physical activities. The research particularly focuses on intrinsic and extrinsic motivational drivers, as well as other psychosocial barriers such as fear of injury, mental fatigue, and institutional limitations. A quantitative approach was utilized, employing two validated tools: The Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale (PALMS) and the Avoidance of Physical Activity Questionnaire (AFAQ). Data were collected from a sample of 730 university athletes using a structured survey. Hierarchical regression and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were applied to test relationships between motivational factors and sports participation. Findings indicate that intrinsic motivators, including enjoyment, mastery, and psychological well-being, are significantly associated with higher sports engagement, while external barriers like injury fears and lack of support infrastructure significantly reduce participation. The study suggests that holistic strategies promoting both psychological readiness and environmental support are crucial in fostering active sports participation among youth in higher education institutions.