The affect [sic] of injuries on a sport persons [sic] motivation to return to sport

Abstract

The purpose of the current longitudinal study was to examine competitive athlete's motivational responses to serious injury. In-depth semi-structured interviews were used to investigate the experiences of competitive athletes [N = 4] throughout recovery. As a result of content analysis, a number of emergent themes were reported including changes in motivation levels and psychological responses throughout recovery. Deci and Ryan's (1985) Self-Determination Theory was used to provide a framework for discussion purposes, in particular the need for autonomy, competence and relatedness. Important practical implications emanated, in particular, the use of goal-setting from injury onset in order to promote motivation and the importance of support providers for the injured athlete.