Can motivational behaviours be trained online? Acceptability and effectiveness of a self-determination theory-based interaction training for physical activity professionals

Background: Previous studies support the benefits of self-determination theory-based (SDT) motivating interaction styles. However, professionals often encounter difficulties in adopting and sustaining motivating behaviours, even after participating in thoroughly designed and carefully delivered interventions. While interaction training courses are increasingly offered online, their acceptability and outcomes are rarely evaluated. Research questions: We examine acceptability and outcomes of a SDT-based online interaction training intervention among healthcare professionals, physical education teachers and sport coaches. Methods: In this quasi-experimental, longitudinal feasibility study, participants (N=145) attended six two-hour online sessions biweekly, and completed surveys at three timepoints. Acceptability was measured based on Sekhon et al.'s (2017) theoretical framework and motivating styles with validated vignette measures (e.g., SIS-PE, Escriva-Boulley et al., 2021). Results: The intervention and its online delivery were rated highly acceptable by all professional groups. Motivating styles improved (p=.001-.05) in all groups. Intervention acceptability correlated positively with autonomy supportive and negatively with controlling style post-intervention but was unrelated with structuring or chaotic styles. Discussion: Online delivery of an interaction training to multiple professional groups is acceptable and feasible while also imparting positive effects on motivating styles. Perceiving the intervention as likable and effective enhances results so optimising acceptability of future trainings is vital.