The Development of an Observational Assessment Tool Examining Environmental Support within Physical Activity Consultation

Grounded in Self Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985: Intrinsic motivation and self determination in human behaviour. New York: Plenum), the aim of this study was to develop and test the inter-rater reliability of an observational measure of environmental support reflected in the interpersonal style of health and fitness advisors during physical activity consultations. The instrument taps four dimensions of the interpersonal style of the advisor: namely, Autonomy (facilitation of the client’s endorsement of his/her desire and choices for behavioural change), Involvement (provision of time, attention and dedication), Structure (provision of clear guidelines and expectations) and, a negatively scored dimension labelled Control (the enforcement of the advisor’s personal agendas with the client).