MOTIVATIONAL BACKGROUND FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Abstract:

This study analyzed the perception about affective background for physical activity (PA) related to basic psychological needs (BPN) and investigated motivational regulations for PA in the discourse of beginners at an exercise program in primary health care. A cross-sectional study was carried out using the Focus Group technique to reach the study’s goals. Participants were 41 adult users of Brazil’s Unified Health System. Results show that their perceptions suggest frustration regarding basic needs for autonomy and competence. Beginners’ behavior is primarily regulated by external circumstances characterized by punishment and fear when joining the program. Intrinsic motivational regulations and low self-determination to participate in the program were not observed. It can be argued that this population does not feel satisfaction and pleasure when doing PA per se, therefore decreasing their chances of maintaining the PA behavior.

Keywords:
Exercise; Primary Health Care; Psychological Theory; Physical Activity