Mechanisms Of Motivation: Does A Personal Connection To Multiple Sclerosis Increase Motivation To Participate In A Fundraising Charity Event?

Previous research has demonstrated using a MS PA-based charity fundraising event as a catalyst for PA acts as an ideal PA intervention by fulfilling key concepts of both human motivation and behavior theories, Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Behavioral Economics (BE), in creating a personal connection to MS and thus increasing intrinsic motivation to engage in PA. The current study aimed to integrate foundational aspects of both SDT and BE theories in a virtual PA program design in an attempt to create a personal connection to MS to increase motivation to adhere to PA engagement. The virtual program implements a12-week training program for a virtual 5K run or walk benefitting the National MS Society (NMSS) and a 12-week educational intervention about MS in an attempt to foster a personal connection to MS. Due to situational and environmental barriers, there was an unexpected attrition rate (84%) led the study to shift its focus on analyzing the motivational differences between the completion and dropout group. This assessment led researchers to understand the feasibility of the program design and integral changes to be made to increase intrinsic motivation in long-term adherence to PA engagement.