The influence of motivational climate and goal orientation on burnout: An exploratory analysis among division I collegiate student-athletes

A review of the burnout literature reveals a paucity of research examining the relationship between goal orientation, motivational climate, and burnout among collegiate student-athletes. The present research investigated the relationship of these constructs among Division I student-athletes from a mid-Atlantic university. Gender differences in burnout were also examined. Student-athletes (N=74) completed inventories assessing burnout, motivational climate, and goal orientation. Significant relationships between burnout and motivational climate were observed. Athletes perceiving high ego-lowtask climates reported the greatest burnout levels. Female athletes also reported significantly greater burnout levels. Motivational climate and gender also predicted burnout among participants. Results provide support for examining burnout within an Achievement Goal Theory framework. The importance of the potential social impact of coaches and gender on collegiate athlete burnout is discussed.