Research young football players’ intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in Chinese school, the perspective from self- determination

Abstract

In this study, young football players from minority groups in Chinese campuses are selected as the research objects, and their internal and external motivation of playing football is investigated. In this study, a total of 93 young players' questionnaires (Adapted MPAM-R) were collected. From their questionnaires, it can be known that their main internal motivations for playing football are dreams, interests and the charm of football. Through some interviews with them, we can see that the external motivation of most players is derived from the internal motivation. It is a good thing if playing football can make them live a good life or go to a good university. This gives some enlightenment to parents and educators. Young players should give attention to their studies and careers, and they bear twice as much pressure as ordinary students. At present, China's education models children, so parents and educators should be aware of it. Education is not just about giving knowledge to children, but about what children need and like.