APPLICATION OF FLOW THEORY AS AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH IN RESEARCH ON ATHLETE MOTIVATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/sports-education/2025-1-5Keywords:
innovative approach, flow state, motivational analysis, self-determination, self-developmentAbstract
The article focuses on examining methods for developing athletes’ motivation based on flow theory and identifying key challenges in its application in the sports field. It explores the theoretical foundations of developing athletes’ intrinsic motivation, particularly through the lens of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s flow theory, Edward Deci and Richard Ryan’s self-determination theory, and Robert Vallerand’s hierarchical model of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The article discusses the principles behind the emergence and development of the flow state in athletes, as well as its significance in enhancing engagement and satisfaction in sports activities. Objective – analysis of the flow theory and the determination of the content characteristics and features of this innovative approach to analyzing athletes’ motivation. Methods: analysis and systematization of scientific and methodological literature; expert evaluation method; interviews; interdisciplinary and systemic approach. Results. Two general innovative approaches to developing athletes’ motivation have been identified. The first approach focuses on increasing the likelihood of experiencing the state of flow during task performance. This is achieved by optimizing the structure and content of training exercises, including carefully selecting tasks and individually determining their optimal complexity based on external conditions and the athlete’s psychological state. It is important that the structure of the activity is clear and understandable to all participants, while also providing opportunities for both internal and external feedback on task progress. The second approach emphasizes developing personal traits that facilitate the experience of flow. Individuals who actively seek optimal challenges and are more likely to enter the state of flow are referred to as “autotelic personalities”. Enhancing these traits in athletes can significantly improve their motivation and performance by fostering persistence and curiosity in tackling complex tasks.
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