Open Access

Darlene Heinen

• Depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders. Studies reported that exercises can be as effective as pharmacotherapy or psychotherapy in the treatment of depression. However less is known about the mechanism exercise effects psychological well-being. The Basic Need Theory, a mini theory within Self-Determination Theory proposes the implication of the perceived social environment on the satisfaction of basic psychological needs, namely autonomy, competence and relatedness. The satisfaction of basic needs is essential for human well-being whereas the frustration leads to ill-being. An autonomy supportive social environment is of use in the fulfillment of basic needs. The following study examined a sample of 90 participants allocated into groups of low and high exercise intensity completing an exercise therapy of 12 weeks. The perceived satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs and the effect of autonomy support on the change of basic psychological needs after exercise therapy in different intensities were evaluated pre and post intervention. Results have shown an effect of exercise therapy on the change of depressive symptoms. A difference of efficacy of exercises in low or high intensity could not be verified. A path analysis has shown an effect of autonomy support on the change in depressive symptoms that is partially mediated by the frustration of the need for competence. Taking together the results maintained that exercise therapy redounds in a positive change of depressive symptoms. There is evidence for the satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs contributed to this change. Autonomy support needs more empirical testing to be better substantiated with regard to the basic needs. Future studies might examine how the basic psychological needs relate to other facets of ill-being (e.g., anxiety). Keywords: depression, exercise and depression, Self-Determination Theory, basic psychological needs, Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration Scale, autonomy support