Gender Differences in Perceived Physical Competence and Physical Activity Motivation Among Secondary Students in Kwara State

Perceived physical competence is a central psychological determinant of physical activity motivation, and gender differences in this construct have significant implications for physical education and sport participation programming. This study analyses gender differences in perceived physical competence and physical activity motivation among senior secondary school students in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional analytical survey was conducted among 380 students from 10 secondary schools selected through stratified random sampling. Perceived physical competence was assessed using the Physical Self-Perception Profile adapted for the Nigerian adolescent context, while physical activity motivation was measured using the Behavioural Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire. Physical activity levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire as an outcome variable. Multivariate analysis of covariance and path analysis were employed. Findings reveal significantly higher perceived physical competence scores among male students across all subscales including sport competence, physical condition, body attractiveness, and strength. Female students report predominantly extrinsic and identified regulation as motivation profiles, while male students demonstrate more autonomous intrinsic motivation patterns. Path analysis confirms that perceived competence mediates the relationship between gender and autonomous motivation, which in turn predicts physical activity levels. Interventions targeting perceived physical competence enhancement are recommended as a priority strategy for increasing female physical activity participation. Keywords: perceived physical competence, gender differences, physical activity motivation, secondary students, Kwara State