Spanish version of the Multidimensional Motivational Climate Observation System (MMCOS): reliability and validity evidences

Abstract

This article explores the reliability and validity of the Spanish version of the Multidimensional Motivational Climate Observation System (MMCOS), an instrument based on observational methodology in order to assess the coach-created motivational environment in sport from conceptualization proposed by Duda in 2013, which integrates the Achievement Goal Theory and the Self-Determination Theory. The study examines the interobserver reliability, the general characteristics of the data obtained by the instrument, the factorial structure of the MMCOS and the predictive validity of the observational system in relation to athletes’ reported intentions to drop-out. Thirty-six male grassroots coaches were filmed during a training session and assessed by MMCOS and two hundred and ninety-three players completed a questionnaire that evaluated their intentions to drop-out in the next soccer season. Overall, the results, which indicated satisfactory reliability and provided validity evidences, are discussed around the characteristics of the MMCOS.