ASPECTOS MOTIVACIONAIS E EMPODERAMENTO DE ATLETAS ANÕES: UMA ABORDAGEM QUALITATIVA

The Self-Determination Theory emphasizes the importance of fulfilling three psychological needs: autonomy, positive social relationships, and competence. In sports, addressing these needs depends on the motivational climate created by the coach. This study aimed to investigate how athletes with dwarfism perceive the motivational climate created by their coaches, their satisfaction with basic psychological needs, and their sense of empowerment. Four Paralympic athletes with dwarfism in athletics were interviewed. Data were collected through semi-structured, individual interviews with thematic questions, and organized using discourse analysis. Athletes reported positive perceptions of autonomy, noting that it enhanced their motivation and voluntary participation in sports. Perception of competence was also positively evaluated, with all athletes confident in their sporting abilities. Positive social relationships were highlighted as important, although athletes faced discrimination outside of sports. Regarding the motivational climate, athletes identified coaching feedback practices as crucial for their motivation. The perception of empowerment was linked to concepts of equality and family support, emphasizing the role of the sporting environment and the coach in promoting athletes' motivation and empowerment. The positive sports context and favorable motivational climate created by coaches significantly contributed to the athletes' sense of autonomy, competence, and empowerment. However, social challenges outside of sports still impact their social relationships. Received on: 01/08/2024Reformulated on: 13/10/2024Accepted on: 14/10/2024