Self determination theory
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Self-Determination Theory: An Overview and Applications
Introduction to Self-Determination Theory (SDT)
Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is a comprehensive framework for understanding human motivation, particularly focusing on the role of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. Developed over nearly four decades, SDT posits that human beings have three innate psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. When these needs are satisfied, they foster psychological growth, well-being, and intrinsic motivation .
Basic Psychological Needs: Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness
Autonomy
Autonomy refers to the need to feel in control of one’s own behaviors and goals. It is about having the freedom to make choices and decisions that align with one’s true self. Research shows that autonomy is crucial for fostering intrinsic motivation and well-being across various domains, including education, work, and physical activity .
Competence
Competence involves the need to gain mastery and effectiveness in one’s activities. It is about feeling capable and skilled. Studies indicate that when individuals feel competent, they are more likely to engage in activities with intrinsic motivation, leading to better performance and persistence .
Relatedness
Relatedness is the need to feel connected to others, to love and care, and to be loved and cared for. This need is essential for social development and well-being. Research highlights that relatedness satisfaction is linked to positive outcomes in educational settings, work environments, and physical education .
Applications of SDT in Various Domains
Education
In educational settings, SDT has been extensively applied to understand student motivation. Intrinsic motivation and well-internalized forms of extrinsic motivation (e.g., identified regulation) are associated with positive educational outcomes such as higher engagement, better performance, and greater well-being . Teachers play a significant role in supporting students' autonomy and competence, which in turn enhances student motivation and learning outcomes.
Work
SDT is also relevant in the workplace, where it helps explain how different types of motivation affect employee performance and satisfaction. Autonomy, competence, and relatedness at work are linked to higher job satisfaction, better performance, and lower burnout rates . Differentiating between types of extrinsic motivation (e.g., external vs. introjected regulation) provides a nuanced understanding of employee behavior and well-being.
Physical Education and Exercise
In the context of physical education and exercise, SDT has been used to explore how motivation affects participation and adherence to physical activity. Autonomous motivation is positively correlated with adaptive outcomes such as higher engagement and persistence, while controlled forms of motivation (e.g., external regulation) are linked to maladaptive outcomes . Teachers and peers significantly influence students' experiences of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in physical education settings.
Second Language Learning
SDT has also been applied to second language learning, where it helps explain how different motivational orientations affect language acquisition. Research shows that intrinsic motivation and well-internalized extrinsic motivation lead to better language learning outcomes. The theory’s mini-theories, such as organismic integration theory and cognitive evaluation theory, provide additional insights into the motivational processes involved in language learning.
Conclusion
Self-Determination Theory offers a robust framework for understanding human motivation across various domains. By emphasizing the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, SDT provides valuable insights into how to foster intrinsic motivation and well-being. Future research should continue to explore the applications of SDT, refine measurement tools, and integrate the theory with other motivational frameworks to enhance its explanatory power and practical utility.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic