The impact of motivational and moral variables on aggressive tendencies in sport

Marta Guivernau Rojas, Purdue University

Abstract

This dissertation examined motivational factors and moral variables in relation to aggressive tendencies in young soccer players. Drawing from Structural Developmental Moral Theory (Kohlberg, 1984) and Achievement Goal Theory (Nicholls, 1984, 1989) and incorporating individual differences and situational variability as potential predictors of athletic aggression, a comprehensive model was proposed and statistically evaluated. Dispositional and situationally emphasized goal perspectives were examined and the relationship of moral atmosphere and moral identity to the self-reported likelihood to aggress was determined. Participants were 135 male and 53 female athletes (M age = 15.3 years) who took part in a national level soccer camp. Athletes answered a questionnaire assessing the variables of interest. The purposes of this dissertation were examined in three papers. Findings from the first paper showed that the players' perceived team pro-aggressive norms were the best predictor of their likelihood to aggress. Moreover, athletes' perceptions of their coach and team captain's pro-aggressive norms were the most salient to their likelihood to aggress. Further, results indicated that the parental influence on athletes' aggressive tendencies varies as a function of gender. Results from the second paper revealed gender differences in goals, associated beliefs, and perceptions of the climate that were consistent with the literature. Findings also revealed that an ego-oriented theory of achievement positively predicted aggressive tendencies. The third paper provided evidence for the goodness of fit of the proposed comprehensive model of sport aggressive tendencies (CFI = .94–.95; NNFI = .93–.94; RMR = .05; RMSEA = .03–.04). Results underscored the relevance of young athletes' perceptions of the pro-aggressive norms stemming from the sport environment and the endorsement of an ego-theory of sport achievement in the prediction of aggressive tendencies. This dissertation highlights the influence of significant others in shaping the moral atmosphere operating on youth sport teams. The results also reinforce the importance of de-emphasizing an ego-oriented achievement perspective to reduce aggression in youth sport.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Smith, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Social psychology|Recreation|Behaviorial sciences

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