Understanding older owners' motivation to dog-walk utilizing the Self-Determination Theory

Authors

  • Ashley E. Hope Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON
  • Jocelyn (Joey) M. Farrell Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON
  • Sandi J. Spaulding Western University, London, ON

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v7i3.172

Keywords:

motivation, self-determination theory, dog-walking, older adults

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Dog ownership in older adulthood has been connected with increased likelihood of meeting the physical activity guidelines. There are older dog owners, however, who do not walk their dogs. Investigation utilizing the Self-Determination Theory was used to identify differences in motivation between regular and infrequent dog-walkers, while qualitative investigation helped identify and explore factors that influence motivation (basic psychological needs).

Method: Ninety-four dog owners, aged 55 years and older, participated in the study. Participants completed the Behavioural Regulations in Exercise Questionnaire 2, a measure of motivation, a questionnaire to measure dog-walking behaviour,

Author Biography

Jocelyn (Joey) M. Farrell, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON

Director, School of Kinesiology

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Published

2014-09-30

How to Cite

Hope, A. E., Farrell, J. (Joey) M., & Spaulding, S. J. (2014). Understanding older owners’ motivation to dog-walk utilizing the Self-Determination Theory. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 7(3), 3–17. https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v7i3.172

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Section

ARTICLES