Abstract - What influences Vietnamese young people’s participation in Vovinam? The stimulus-organism-response model perspective
Background. Vovinam, a martial art embedded with rich Vietnamese cultural elements, is increasingly popular among young people. Beyond the physical benefits, Vovinam serves as a vital tool for preserving cultural values, respecting educators, and instilling discipline and life skills in Vietnamese youth.
Problem and Objective. Using the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) Theory, this study aims to identify the key motivators encouraging students to practice Vovinam. The stimuli examined include perceived health consciousness and perceived exercise benefits. The organism focuses on the need for physical activity and national identity, while the response is sustained practice.
Methods. An online survey of 494 Vietnamese Vovinam practitioners conducted from January to February 2025 was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).
Results. Findings reveal that health consciousness and perceived exercise benefits significantly influence the need to exercise. The necessity for physical activity strongly predicts continued engagement in Vovinam among young people. Notably, national identity moderates the relationship between exercise needs and ongoing practice.
Conclusions. This research highlights the motivational and cultural factors driving the participation of Vietnamese young people in Vovinam. The insights gained can assist educational institutions and policymakers in promoting Vovinam to foster national pride and enhance physical health.