Self-determination theory

Definition

Self-determination theory (SDT) is a psychological framework that focuses on human motivation and personality, emphasizing the importance of intrinsic motivation in fostering personal growth and well-being. SDT highlights three fundamental psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness, which are essential for optimal motivation and mental health. By fulfilling these needs, individuals can enhance their self-motivation and engagement in activities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Self-determination theory was developed by psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan in the 1970s as a way to understand human motivation and personality.
2. According to SDT, fulfilling the three psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—leads to enhanced motivation, performance, and overall well-being.
3. Research indicates that environments supporting autonomy can lead to greater intrinsic motivation and commitment to tasks, compared to those that rely heavily on extrinsic rewards.
4. SDT differentiates between different types of motivation, explaining how intrinsic motivation fosters creativity, persistence, and optimal performance.
5. The application of self-determination theory extends beyond individual behavior; it has implications for education, workplace motivation, health care, and personal development.

Review Questions

• How does self-determination theory explain the role of intrinsic motivation in personal development?
  • Self-determination theory posits that intrinsic motivation plays a crucial role in personal development by promoting engagement in activities driven by genuine interest and enjoyment. When individuals fulfill their psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, they are more likely to experience higher levels of intrinsic motivation. This leads to greater persistence in challenging tasks, creativity in problem-solving, and overall satisfaction with personal growth efforts.
• Discuss how the three psychological needs identified in self-determination theory interact with each other to influence motivation.
  • The three psychological needs identified in self-determination theory—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—are interconnected and collectively influence motivation. For example, when individuals feel a sense of autonomy in their actions, they are more likely to pursue challenges that enhance their competence. Simultaneously, positive social interactions that satisfy the need for relatedness can further boost feelings of competence. When these needs are met together, individuals experience heightened intrinsic motivation and a stronger commitment to their goals.
• Evaluate the implications of self-determination theory for educational practices aimed at enhancing student motivation.
  • Self-determination theory has significant implications for educational practices by emphasizing the importance of creating an environment that supports students' psychological needs. Educators can enhance student motivation by fostering autonomy through choices in learning activities, providing opportunities for mastery to meet competence needs, and encouraging collaboration to satisfy relatedness. This approach can lead to increased student engagement, better academic performance, and a more profound love for learning. Ultimately, applying SDT principles can transform educational settings into places where students thrive as motivated learners.

Related terms

Intrinsic Motivation:

The drive to engage in activities for their own sake, driven by personal interest or enjoyment rather than external rewards.

Extrinsic Motivation:

The drive to engage in activities due to external factors such as rewards or recognition, rather than for the inherent satisfaction of the activity.

Autonomy:

The need for individuals to feel in control of their own actions and decisions, allowing them to pursue activities that align with their interests and values.