Week 2 AS

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Questions and Answers

What is a key characteristic of a theory?

It relies solely on individual case studies.

It provides only subjective opinions.

It describes a behavior and predicts future behaviors. (correct)

It is mainly anecdotal evidence.

Which of the following best defines a 'model'?

A graphic depiction of a phenomenon. (correct)

A complex set of assumptions and rules.

A universally accepted truth.

An unproven hypothesis.

Why are theories important in exercise psychology?

They eliminate the need for empirical testing.

They primarily focus on individual preferences.

They serve only as historical references.

They help better understand and predict physical activity and exercise behavior. (correct)

What does Self-Efficacy Theory primarily focus on?

The individual's belief in their ability to succeed. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main components of a theory?

It analyzes or explains a specific set of phenomena. Signup and view all the answers

What are the components involved in predicting behavior according to theories?

Systematic knowledge and established principles. Signup and view all the answers

Which theory emphasizes the role of personal motivation in sustaining exercise behavior?

Self-Determination Theory. Signup and view all the answers

How do theories support the creation of behavioral interventions?

They offer empirically validated frameworks for intervention formulation. Signup and view all the answers

Which measure of self-efficacy is specifically related to an individual’s confidence in overcoming barriers to exercise?

Barrier Self-Efficacy Signup and view all the answers

What is the central component of the Theory of Planned Behaviour?

Intentions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered one of the factors that determine intentions in the Theory of Planned Behaviour?

Economic Factors Signup and view all the answers

Self-efficacy is best at predicting which type of behaviors?

Novel or challenging behaviors Signup and view all the answers

In assessing self-efficacy, which level of challenge is associated with measuring an individual’s capability to run 1 mile?

Low Challenge Signup and view all the answers

What does self-efficacy specifically refer to in the context of task performance?

Belief in one's abilities to perform a specific task Signup and view all the answers

Which source of influence contributes to self-efficacy by observing others perform tasks successfully?

Vicarious Experiences Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a factor that influences self-efficacy?

Reinforcement History Signup and view all the answers

Why do individuals tend to avoid tasks they feel exceed their capabilities?

They lack self-efficacy Signup and view all the answers

What type of social influence is most effective in raising a person's self-efficacy?

Persuasion from a knowledgeable significant other Signup and view all the answers

Which physiological state can negatively impact self-efficacy?

Fatigue Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is least associated with enhancing self-efficacy?

Observing a non-related person succeed Signup and view all the answers

How does the degree of similarity between tasks affect self-efficacy?

Greater similarity strengthens self-efficacy Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a theory from a model?

A theory explains why phenomena occur. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a construct?

Self-esteem Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between correlation and causation?

Causation implies one event influences another. Signup and view all the answers

Which theory focuses on the role of motivation in behavior?

Self-Determination Theory (SDT) Signup and view all the answers

Which factor relates to behavioral economics in understanding motivation?

Low cost and expected outcomes Signup and view all the answers

What factor has a stronger impact on intentions than Strength of Motivation in the Theory of Planned Behaviour?

Attitudes Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of Integrated Regulation in extrinsic motivation?

Behaviour becomes part of who the person is Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reflects a low level of self-determination in motivation?

External Regulation Signup and view all the answers

Which component of Self-Determination Theory emphasizes feeling connected to others?

Relatedness Signup and view all the answers

What does the Intention-to-Behaviour Gap indicate in the Theory of Planned Behaviour?

A significant percentage of intentions do not translate into actual behaviour. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of motivation does Self-Determination Theory focus on as equally important as its strength?

Quality of motivation Signup and view all the answers

Which type of motivation is characterized by engaging in a behavior to confirm one's self-identity?

Integrated Regulation Signup and view all the answers

What is a barrier to performing exercise as mentioned in Perceived Behavioural Control?

Bad weather Signup and view all the answers

What element does Self-Determination Theory claim is essential for engagement in a behavior?

Basic Psychological Needs Signup and view all the answers

Which type of extrinsic motivation is driven by personal goals and outcomes rather than the activity itself?

Identified Regulation Signup and view all the answers

How do theories differ from models in the context of exercise behavior?

Theories aim to explain why behaviors occur, while models describe the phenomenon without providing an explanation. Signup and view all the answers

What role does motivation play in predicting a person's future exercise behavior?

Motivation influences the degree of determination and the approach someone takes toward engaging in exercise. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the relationship between expectation and value in behavioral economics as it relates to motivation.

In behavioral economics, motivation is predicted by the expected outcomes of a behavior and the value placed on it. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of correlation versus causation in the context of testing theories?

Correlation indicates a relationship between two variables, whereas causation establishes that one variable directly influences the other. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it stated that theories cannot be 'proven' in the study of exercise behavior?

Theories can only be supported or refuted through testing, as absolute proof is unattainable in social sciences. Signup and view all the answers

What role do attitudes play in the Theory of Planned Behaviour?

Attitudes reflect a person's evaluation of a behavior, influencing whether they perceive it as favorable or unfavorable. Signup and view all the answers

How does barrier self-efficacy differ from task self-efficacy?

Barrier self-efficacy refers to confidence in overcoming obstacles to perform a behavior, while task self-efficacy is the belief in one's ability to execute a specific task. Signup and view all the answers

Why might increases in self-efficacy not generalize to other behaviors?

Increases in self-efficacy may not generalize because skills and confidence developed in one activity, like running, may not apply to different activities, such as cycling. Signup and view all the answers

In the Theory of Planned Behaviour, what is the relationship between intentions and behavior?

Intentions serve as a central factor that predicts a person's likelihood to perform a behavior, influenced by attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. Signup and view all the answers

What implications do the limitations of self-efficacy have on behavior maintenance?

The limitations indicate that self-efficacy is better at predicting initial engagement in novel behaviors rather than the ongoing maintenance of habitual behaviors. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for a theory to describe behavior?

A theory describes behavior by providing a framework for understanding the reasons and patterns behind it. Signup and view all the answers

How do theories aid in designing effective behavior interventions?

Theories provide a scientifically supported blueprint that helps formulate interventions by analyzing behavior patterns. Signup and view all the answers

What are the main assumptions of social cognitive theories?

Social cognitive theories assume that behavior is influenced by individual cognitive processes and social contexts. Signup and view all the answers

What key distinction can be made between a theory and a model?

A theory articulates a broader understanding of behaviors, while a model is primarily a graphical representation of a phenomenon. Signup and view all the answers

In terms of behavior prediction, what role does Self-Efficacy Theory play?

Self-Efficacy Theory predicts behavior by assessing an individual's confidence in their ability to perform a task. Signup and view all the answers

Why is understanding the Intention-to-Behaviour Gap important in exercise psychology?

Understanding the Intention-to-Behaviour Gap is important as it reveals discrepancies between what individuals intend to do and what they actually do. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Theory of Planned Behavior highlight regarding behavioral intentions?

The Theory of Planned Behavior highlights that behavioral intentions are influenced by attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of self-determination in exercise motivation?

Self-determination is significant as it relates to the intrinsic motivations driving individuals to engage in exercise behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What is self-efficacy and how does it influence task performance?

Self-efficacy is an individual's belief in their ability to successfully perform a task, influencing their willingness to undertake activities they feel capable of performing. Signup and view all the answers

What role do past performances play in shaping self-efficacy?

Past performances influence self-efficacy by providing evidence of success or failure in similar tasks, affecting the belief in one's abilities. Signup and view all the answers

How does vicarious experience contribute to an individual’s self-efficacy?

Vicarious experience boosts self-efficacy by allowing individuals to observe others perform tasks successfully, especially when the observer perceives similarity with the model. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of social persuasion in enhancing self-efficacy?

Social persuasion involves verbal and nonverbal tactics used by knowledgeable or significant individuals to increase a person's self-efficacy. Signup and view all the answers

Which physiological states can negatively affect self-efficacy?

Negative physiological states, such as pain, fatigue, and discomfort, can reduce an individual's self-efficacy. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the relationship between self-efficacy and task avoidance.

Individuals tend to avoid tasks they perceive as exceeding their capabilities due to low self-efficacy. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the concept of a model important in the context of self-efficacy?

The concept of a model is important as observing a successful model can enhance self-efficacy through vicarious learning. Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of social influences on self-efficacy, and which sources are most effective?

Social influences can significantly impact self-efficacy, with the most effective sources being knowledgeable individuals, like coaches or family members. Signup and view all the answers

What contributes to Perceived Behavioural Control in exercising?

Facilitators like feeling energetic and having a gym membership, as well as barriers like pain and bad weather. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Theory of Planned Behaviour explain the gap between intention and actual behaviour?

It suggests that while intentions are strong predictors of behaviour, there is a significant Intention-to-Behaviour Gap of 48%. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes intrinsic motivation from extrinsic motivation in Self-Determination Theory?

Intrinsic motivation comes from within the individual, driven by personal satisfaction, while extrinsic motivation is influenced by external rewards or pressures. Signup and view all the answers

What are the three basic psychological needs outlined in Self-Determination Theory?

Autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Signup and view all the answers

What type of extrinsic motivation is characterized by engaging in a behaviour influenced by self-imposed pressure?

Introjected regulation. Signup and view all the answers

How does Identified Regulation function within the continuum of motivation?

It involves being motivated by personal goals where the individual values the outcomes of the activity. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the strength of motivation in the Theory of Planned Behaviour?

It is a key factor influencing an individual's intention to engage in a behaviour. Signup and view all the answers

In Self-Determination Theory, what is meant by 'competence' as a psychological need?

Competence refers to the need to feel effective and capable in one's activities. Signup and view all the answers

What is Integrated Regulation in the context of extrinsic motivation?

Integrated regulation occurs when a behaviour becomes a part of the individual's identity and values. Signup and view all the answers

What role does relatedness play in motivating behaviour according to Self-Determination Theory?

Relatedness involves feeling connected to others and is essential for fostering intrinsic motivation. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Theories

A theory is a systematically organized set of knowledge
Applicable in a wide variety of settings
Theories are used to analyze, predict or explain behavior in a population

Why Theories are Important

Theories can improve understanding and predict physical activity behavior
Theories give a blueprint to form effective behavioral interventions

Models

A model is a visual representation of a phenomenon
Models describe phenomenon, but they don't explain why things occur

Constructs

A construct is a concept that isn't directly observable
Constructs are subjective, such as motivation, intentions, and self-esteem

Using Language

Theories can't be proven
Theories can be supported or refuted
Correlation does not equal causation

Motivation

Motivation predicts future behavior
Motivation can be measured in terms of intensity and direction
It is predicted by outcomes and the value placed on the behavior
People are motivated by low cost and highly reinforcing behaviors

Social elements, such as social pressure, influence behavior
Human cognition, such as beliefs, attitudes, and expectations, also influence behavior

Self-efficacy Theory

A person's self efficacy is their belief in their ability to perform a task successfully
People are more likely to perform activities they perceive as attainable
People avoid activities they perceive as exceeding their capabilities

Sources of Influence

Past performances: successful experience in similar activities can increase self-efficacy
Vicarious experiences: when someone else performs a task successfully, it can increase the observer's self-efficacy
Social persuasion: Verbal or nonverbal tactics, such as encouragement, can increase self-efficacy
Physiological and Affective States: positive states can increase self-efficacy, and negative states can decrease self-efficacy

Self-Efficacy Theory Measuring

Self-efficacy can be assessed at different levels of challenge
Self-efficacy can be assessed in terms of strength, which can be measured at different challenge levels

Limitations of Self-Efficacy Theory

Self-efficacy is a good predictor of novel and challenging behaviors
It is not a good predictor of habitual behaviors
An increase in self-efficacy may not generalize to different behaviors

Theory of Planned Behavior

Intentions play a key role in behavior
Intentions are influenced by attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control

Components of the Theory of Planned Behavior

Attitudes: a person's feelings about performing a behavior
Subjective Norms: perceived social pressure to engage in a behavior
Perceived Behavioral Control: a person's evaluation of the ability to influence behavior

Strengths and Limitations of the Theory of Planned Behavior

It is good at predicting intentions to perform a behavior
Attitudes have a stronger impact than the other two components
It is not particularly good at predicting behavior

Self-Determination Theory

The type/quality of motivation is as important as the strength of motivation
Individuals' intrinsic motivation level affects their willingness to engage in a behavior

Key Components of Self-Determination Theory

Basic psychological needs: Autonomy, competence, relatedness
Motivation: Extrinsic or Intrinsic

Three Categories of Motivation

Amotivation: lack of motivation
Extrinsic Motivation: Motivation comes from the environment or social structure
Intrinsic Motivation: Motivation comes from within the individual

Types of Extrinsic Motivation

Integrated Regulation: Behavior becomes part of oneself
Identified regulation: Motivation is related to the outcome of the activity
Introjected Regulation: Motivation is imposed on the individual to avoid a negative feeling
External regulation: Motivation is external reward oriented

Motivation on a Continuum

Amotivation: No engagement
External Regulation: Engaging for reward or punishment
Introjected Regulation: Engaging to avoid guilt
Identified Regulation: Engaging to achieve an outcome
Integrated Regulation: Engaging to confirm a sense of self
Intrinsic Motivation: Engaging for the joy of the activity

What are theories?

Theories are used to explain and predict behaviour
Theories are systematically organized bodies of knowledge
They are used to analyze, predict, and explain phenomena
Theories describe a behaviour and make a prediction
They provide a scientific basis for interventions

Theories vs. Models

Models depict or describe a phenomenon
Theories explain "why" a phenomenon occurs
A construct is a concept or label, it's not directly observable

Why are theories important?

Theories help understand and predict behaviour
Theories provide a blueprint for effective interventions

Social cognitive theories have social and cognitive elements
Behaviour can be influenced by social experiences and pressures
Cognitions like attitudes, expectations, and beliefs influence behaviour

Theories of exercise behaviour

Theories of exercise behavior are rooted in theories of human motivation
Motivation is the degree of determination, desire, or drive with which someone approaches a behaviour
Behaviour is determined by expected outcomes and the value placed on the behaviour

Self-Efficacy Theory

Self-efficacy is an individual's belief in their ability to perform a task
It is a situation-specific form of self-confidence
It influences the activities people avoid and undertake
People are more likely to engage in activities they believe they can successfully perform
Sources of influence on self-efficacy include past performances, vicarious experiences (modelling), social persuasion, and physiological/affective states
Self-efficacy is often measured at different levels of challenge and assessed for strength at each level

Theory of Planned Behaviour

Intentions play a central role in behaviour
Intentions are shaped by attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control
Attitudes reflect a person's evaluation of a behaviour
Subjective norms represent social pressure to perform a behaviour
Perceived behavioural control is your evaluation of facilitators and barriers to an activity and your ability to influence them
The strength of motivation is key to intention
The Theory of Planned Behaviour is effective in explaining intentions, but not necessarily behaviour
There is a significant gap (48%) between intention and behaviour