The influence of personal characteristics on the motivation of athletes and sports practitioners: A narrative review

Abstract

Motivation is a central factor in adherence, persistence, and performance in the sports context and is influenced by individual and contextual variables. Despite the extensive scientific production, the literature is fragmented regarding the integration of motivation, personality traits, age, sex, and level of sports experience. The present study aimed to integrate and synthesise evidence on the influence of personal characteristics on the motivation of athletes and sports practitioners through a narrative review. Studies published between 2004 and 2024, identified in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases, were analysed. The literature synthesis was framed by classical models of motivation, such as Self-Determination Theory, Achievement Goal Theory, and Achievement Motivation Theory, articulated with the Five-Factor Theory of Personality. The results indicate that traits such as extraversion, conscientiousness, and emotional stability are associated with more self-determined forms of motivation and higher performance levels, especially in highly competitive contexts. Age and sports experience are determinants of motivational orientation, reflecting changes in goals and motives throughout the life cycle. Differences between sexes and between individual and team sports appear context-dependent, showing distinct patterns of motivation and personality. It is concluded that sports motivation emerges from the interaction between personal and contextual characteristics, highlighting its contribution to the understanding of motivational behaviour and sports well-being.