These labs are remarkably diverse — here’s why they’re winning at science

Abstract

Examined the differences in the current strengths of primary motives for participation in physical activities and exercises. 289 Chinese college students (aged 17–31 yrs) in China and 180 American students (aged 18–39 yrs) in the US were administered the Motives for Activity Participation Questionnaire. Two-way analysis of variance indicated that American Ss spent significantly more time participating in physical activity and exercise than did Chinese Ss; men were significantly more likely than women to engage in physical activity and exercise. With respect to the motives for participation, multivariate analysis of variance showed an over-all significant difference on 3 factors of Weight/Body Management, Mental Health, and Social Interaction among the Chinese and American Ss. Subsequently, stepwise multiple regression analysis indicated that social interaction was the primary motive for American men and Chinese women. In contrast, management of body weight was the primary motive for American women. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)