Exploratory Study of Motivational Factors for Male and Female Ethiopian Long Distance Runners
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Abstract
Based on Self-Determination Theory (e.g., Deci & Ryan, 1985a, 2000; Ryan & Deci, 2002) this research focused on the motivation of ten elite Ethiopian male and female long distance runners. The semi-structured interview guide based on the SDT was transcribed verbatim and subjected to an inductive-deductive analysis approach based on the methodological guidance provided by Maykut & Morehouse (1994). Results revealed the integrated type of motivation to be the most evident among the runners.
The data were organized into three broad categories that emerged through the interviews. The three categories are nationalism, economics and fame. Within each category there are themes or subcategories that emerged across various perceptions of the Ethiopian runners. The data revealed that among different types of motivation classified by the Self-Determination Theory (e.g., Deci & Ryan, 1985a, 2000; Ryan & Deci, 2002) there are multiple social factors that influence Ethiopian runners as well.