The Relationship Between Intensity of Fitness Tracker Usage and Motivation

Author

Rachel CannataFollow
Abigail C. DaughertyFollow
Madison O. DiRoccoFollow
Julianne GreenFollow
Pial DasGuptaFollow

College

College of Health Professions (CHP)

Date of Last Revision

2023-05-03 23:31:16

Major

Nursing

Honors Course

Nursing Research

Number of Credits

4

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Date of Expected Graduation

Spring 2020

Abstract

Many college students engage in unhealthy behaviors which may contribute to diseases. Additionally, some students may lack motivation to rectify these behaviors to improve their long-term health. This study assessed the relationship between intensity of fitness tracker usage and motivation among health professions students at a large, public Midwestern university. This non-experimental, correlational study used convenience sampling and a theoretical framework based on Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory. Online recruitment announcements were emailed and included links to the consent form and survey. Motivation was measured with Deci and Ryan’s modified self-determination tool. Intensity of tracker usage was measured using a scale of questions regarding various tracker functions. The data was analyzed with Pearson’s coefficient correlations and no significant relationships between intensity of tracker usage and (a) intrinsic motivation, (b) extrinsic motivation, and (c) prosocial behaviors were found.

Research Sponsor

Dr. Michele Zelko

First Reader

Lisa Hart

Second Reader

Carrie Wissmar

Honors Faculty Advisor

Dr. Christine Graor

Comments

This proposal was previously submitted and approved by the Williams Honors College.

Recommended Citation

Cannata, Rachel; Daugherty, Abigail C.; DiRocco, Madison O.; Green, Julianne; and DasGupta, Pial, "The Relationship Between Intensity of Fitness Tracker Usage and Motivation" (2020). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 1047.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/1047