Qualitative analysis of basic psychological needs in young professional badminton players

Abstract Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is a well-established framework for understanding motivation and well-being in sports, with potential implications for public health strategies to promote physical activity adherence. Badminton is an individual racket sport that has grown significantly in countries like Spain. However, psychological research in this area remains limited. This study used the qualitative methodology following Self-Determination Theory principles to analyze the perspectives of 13 young athletes and two coaches from the Andalusian Center for Sports Technification in Badminton, focusing on psychological needs, motivation dynamics, and long-term goals. Two structured interviews (i.e., one is for the athletes and the other is for the coaches), each divided into six thematic sections, were conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. A content analysis was carried out, and thematic categories were formed to facilitate interpretation of the results. The results showed that the athletes and coaches recognized the influence of the three basic psychological needs on motivation and reported an evolution in the players' motivation over time. This research could serve as a foundation for developing intervention programs that promote athletes' well-being by fostering self-determined motivation through fulfilling basic psychological needs. Also, these results about factors influencing athletes’ engagement and persistence in sports provide implications for public health initiatives aimed at fostering physical activity and mental well-being in broader populations.