The effect of basic psychological needs on attitudes towards physical activity among young adolescents

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, and relatedness) on attitudes toward physical activity among early adolescents. The study was conducted using a correlational survey design within the framework of quantitative research methods. The study sample consisted of 315 early adolescents enrolled in schools in Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye, during the 2025–2026 academic year, who were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using a Personal Information Form, the Basic Psychological Needs in Physical Education Scale, and the Physical Activity Attitude Scale. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. The findings revealed positive and statistically significant relationships between basic psychological needs and attitudes toward physical activity. Significant positive correlations were identified between the total physical activity attitude score and autonomy (r = 0,230), competence (r = 0,217), and relatedness (r = 0,147). Regression analyses demonstrated that autonomy and competence significantly predicted the health dimension of physical activity attitudes. Furthermore, students who participated in sports exhibited significantly higher levels of both physical activity attitudes and basic psychological needs than those who did not participate in sports. Regarding gender differences, male students reported significantly higher physical activity attitudes, as well as higher autonomy and competence levels, compared with female students. In conclusion, the satisfaction of basic psychological needs plays an important role in fostering positive attitudes toward physical activity among early adolescents. In particular, supporting adolescents' autonomy and competence appears to be a key psychological factor for promoting engagement in physical activity. Accordingly, physical education teachers, coaches, and educational policymakers are encouraged to prioritize practices and interventions that support adolescents' basic psychological needs in order to enhance their participation in physical activity.