Participant motivation in surfing: exploring participant motives, achievement goals and self-determined motivation

Abstract

The current study aimed to investigate gender difference within participant motives, achievement goal orientations and motivation of male and female surfers. Subjects were males (n = 44) and females (n = 27) recruited from various surf spots in the UK and Australia. Criterion for participation was that participants had been surfing for over one month and were over 18 years. Participants filled out questionnaires assessing participation motives (Participation Motivation Questionnaire; Gill et al., 1983), achievement goal orientation (Perception of Success Questionnaire; Roberts et al., 1998), social goals (Social Motivation in Sport Scale; Allen, 2003) and motivation (Behavioural Regulation in Sport Questionnaire; Lonsdale et al., in press). Independent samples t-test revealed males were significantly higher in ego orientation, intrinsic motivation to experience stimulation and achievement motives. Moreover, both genders rated highly in task orientation and intrinsic motivation. Results are discussed in accordance with previous research and directions for future research put forward.