THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND ATHLETES’ SATISFACTION: MEDIATING ROLE OF INTRINSIC MOTIVATION AND COPING EFFICACY

Abstract

This study investigates intricate relationships between physical activity and athletes’ satisfaction, with a focus on mediating roles of coping efficacy and intrinsic motivation among the students in higher education institutions in Punjab, Pakistan. Physical activity is widely recognized as a crucial factor in promoting physical health and enhancing mental well-being, are crucial gears of athletes' overall satisfaction. However, mechanisms over which physical activity influences athletes’ satisfaction remain underexplored, mainly in context of higher education in Pakistan. The research employs a survey methodology, targeting student-athletes from various universities and colleges across Punjab. The study examines how regular engagement in physical activity contributes to athletes’ satisfaction, not only through direct physical benefits but also by fostering intrinsic motivation and strengthening coping efficacy. Intrinsic motivation, defined as internal drive to participate in activities for inherent enjoyment and personal reward, is hypothesized to be significant mediator. The coping efficacy, is athlete’s confidence in managing stressors and challenges associated with sports participation, is also explored as critical mediator. The ability to effectively cope with the demands of both academic and athletic responsibilities is essential for maintaining high levels of satisfaction. The study hypothesizes that athletes with high coping efficacy are more likely to experience greater satisfaction, as they are equipped to handle setbacks, pressure, competition-related stress. The findings of study are expected to offer valuable insights into the psychosocial factors that mediate relationship between physical activity and athletes' satisfaction the roles of intrinsic motivation and coping efficacy, the research aims to contribute to the development of targeted interventions that enhance sports experience for student-athletes in higher institutions. These findings will be mainly relevant for coaches, psychologists, and educational administrators seeking to promote the athlete well-being and optimize performance in the context of Pakistani higher education.

Keywords: Physical Activity, Athletes’ Satisfaction: Intrinsic Motivation, Coping Efficacy, Higher Education & Mediation