The influence of social and psychological determinants on physical education teachers' interpersonal style.

Abstract

This correlational research investigated the social and psychological determinants of physical education teachers' interpersonal style. This thesis was based on the theoretical framework from Deci and Ryan's (1985, 1991) Cognitive Evaluation Theory (CET). This research was examining the influence of (a) the teachers' perceptions of their working climate, (b) teachers' own motivation toward physical activity, (c) teachers' own motivation toward their career, and (d) teachers' perceptions of their students' motivation towards physical activity on the physical education teachers interpersonal style (autonomy supportive versus controlling interpersonal style). 48 physical education teachers from two school boards in the Ottawa region decided to fill out a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using multiple regression in order to find relationships between the determinants of interpersonal style and physical education teachers' interpersonal style. The findings from this research revealed that one hypothesis out of four was supported. The limitations of the study are discussed and future research ideas are provided.