The Motivational Profile of Older Sport Participants

Date
2021
Authors
Capeto, Daniel
Supervisor
Naylor, Michael
Johnston, Melody
Item type
Dissertation
Degree name
Master of Business
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Auckland University of Technology
Abstract

The world’s population is aging, and this has major implications for a wide range of sectors. In sport, this is important due to the associated health benefits of sports in later life. Despite extensive scholarly research and industry reporting from various disciplines including sport psychology, health science and leisure, the underlying psychology of sport participation among older adults remains fragmented and there is a need for a proper synthesis. Therefore, this dissertation draws upon academic publications, national governing organisations (NGOs), national sport organisations (NSOs), and local government reports as secondary data sources to conceptualise a motivational profile for older sport participants. The analysis has revealed four distinct dimensions that comprise that profile: 1. Independence; 2. Belongingness; 3. Self-Esteem; 4. Self-Actualisation. From a managerial perspective, these four dimensions and associated commentary provide industry practitioners with understandable and actionable insights to recruit and retain older sport participants.

Description
Keywords
Motivation , Elderly , Aging , Ageing , Older adults , Sport , Participation , Determinants
Source
DOI
Publisher's version
Rights statement