The development of a scale measuring integrated regulation in exercise

Abstract

Objectives: This research aimed to develop and validate a measure of integrated regulation based on self-determination theory (SDT) in an exercise context.

Design: Cross-sectional and prospective surveys were employed.

Methods: The measure was developed from first principles from an initial item pool and items were selected using expert evaluators. The validity of the final item pool was tested across a high-active sample and a lower active sample (N= 488) using single- and multi-sample confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs).

Results: Analyses supported the factorial, nomological, discriminant, and predictive validity of the scale.

Conclusions: The validity of the integrated regulation measure was supported. Present analyses provide evidence that the scale is a valid and reliable tool that may be used to evaluate the effectiveness of autonomy-supportive interventions in health-related behavioural contexts.