Predicting Physical Activity and Mental Health Outcomes in Urban Physical Education

• In Event: Images and Attitudes Surrounding Physical Education

Abstract

There is currently a need to test theoretical models that explain and predict health-related outcomes of PE. Grounded in Basic Needs Theory (Ryan and Deci, 2007), the aim of this study was to develop a predictive model of physical activity, physical self-concept, and global self-esteem for urban students. Participants were one thousand twenty-five PE students from 14 different high schools in a large, urban school district. Results from structual equation modeling provided support for the use of Basic Needs Theory to predict both physical activity behavior and mental health outcomes. Creating autonomy supportive learning environments that support students' needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness appears to be a viable theoretical model for understanding urban students' physical and mental health.

Authors

• Alex C. Garn, Louisiana State University

• Nathan A. Mccaughtry, Wayne State University

• Bo Shen, Wayne State University

• Jeffrey Martin, Wayne State University

• Mariane M. Fahlman, Wayne State University