Beyond Intrinsic Motivation: Why Researchers Should Consider the Full Motivation Continuum in Games for Health Research

Emil Rosenlund Høeg, Jolene Van der Kaap-Deeder

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Abstract

Research within the domain of games for health has predominantly focused on individuals' intrinsic motivation characterized by an inherent enjoyment of the activity. Despite the apparent benefits of intrinsic motivation, we argue that it is imperative to adopt a more nuanced and refined perspective on motivation. Relying on the motivation continuum as outlined within Self-Determination Theory, research within this domain needs to distinguish between both intrinsic and extrinsic (i.e., external, introjected, identified, and integrated regulation) types of motivation. Researchers should, therefore, embrace instruments that assess a broader continuum of motivation rather than just intrinsic motivation alone. By doing so, future research can yield more insight into what fosters autonomous forms of motivation in the field of health-related games, including intrinsic and identified and integrated regulation.
Original languageEnglish
JournalGames for Health
Volume13
Issue number1
Pages (from-to)1-4
Number of pages4
ISSN2161-783X
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 8 Feb 2024

Keywords

  • Exergames
  • Games 4 health
  • Motivation
  • Physical therapy
  • Rehabilitation (MeSH)
  • Self-Determination Theory

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