Teaching action and altruistic behaviour in Physical Education classes. Predictive analysis applying the 3 × 2 motivational climate model

Abstract

This study aims to identify the way in which the motivational climate generated by Physical Education (PE) teachers influences engagement in prosocial-altruistic behaviour in a sample of 714 12-to-18-year-old Spaniards adolescents. To this end, the following objectives were proposed: (1) to identify the types of motivational climates established by teachers in PE classes and their impact on facilitating or limiting student engagement in altruistic prosocial behaviours, and (2) to examine the existence of gender differences and describe whether they are also influenced by the climates generated by teachers. A descriptive, non-randomized and relational research design was employed. The students were applied instruments for the 3 × 2 motivational climate and prosocial behavior in relation to their experiences in physical education classes. Findings reveal that an other-oriented climate, whether approach or avoidance oriented, reduces engagement in altruistic prosocial activities in the physical education classroom. Data analysis lead to the conclusion that a more comparative and negatively competitive perception (climates oriented towards how I perform in front of others) decreases engagement in altruistic prosocial behaviour, mainly in boys, promoting instead rivalry and competitive behaviour.

Keywords

• prosocial behaviour
• motivational climate
• prosocial-altruistic behaviour
• physical education
• teenagers
• teachers