A cross-cultural study on exercise motivation and behavior : the case of American and Taiwanese exercisers

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Lingjiin Kang (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Diane Gill

Abstract: The study examined exercise motivation and behavior of two cultural groups, American and Taiwanese. Gender and group differences on associated variables were studied. Also, relationships between psychological and personal variables were tested. Self-Motivation Inventory, Personal Incentives for Exercise Questionnaire, and Sport Orientation Questionnaire served as exercise motivation measures. Personal and program variables, and open-ended questions, were also included to assess relevant factors. English questionnaires were translated into Chinese for Taiwanese. A total of 391 American and Taiwanese exercisers participated in this study. The results indicated cultural, gender, and group differences on psychological, personal, and program variables. Relationships between psychological and personal variables were significant. Specifically, American exercisers were found more self-motivated and competitive, with higher incentives for exercise than Taiwanese. Older exercisers appeared to have different incentives than younger adults. Further, Four program factors—social support, exercise leadership, organized classes, and group activity—were important in both cultures. Finally, practical implications and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Additional Information

Publication
Dissertation
Language: English
Date: 1991
Subjects
Physical fitness $z United States $v Cross-cultural studies
Physical fitness $z Taiwan $v Cross-cultural studies
Exercise $x Psychological aspects
Motivation (Psychology)

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