B06 - lecture 13 - Self-Determination Theory

How does Self-Determination Theory (SDT) define motivation?

what moves people to action, what energizes and gives direction to behavior

What are common myths about motivation?

motivation is purely innate, constant, or only driven by rewards and punishments.

What is Self-Determination Theory (SDT)?

is a macro-theory of motivation that emphasizes the quality of motivation and its impact on engagement, performance, and well-being.

What are the three basic psychological needs according to SDT?

• Autonomy: Feeling in control of one’s actions.

• Competence: Feeling capable and effective.

• Relatedness: Feeling connected to others.

Why are the three basic psychological needs important?

Their satisfaction promotes self-determined motivation, while frustration can lead to maladaptive outcomes.

What is the Socio-Ecological Model?

A framework that identifies multiple levels of influence on behavior, acknowledging that individual choices are shaped by broader social and environmental factors.

What are the five levels of the Socio-Ecological Model?

• Individual: Personal attributes like knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors.

• Interpersonal: Social networks and relationships, including family and friends.

• Organizational: Institutional settings such as workplaces, schools, and health services.

• Community: Social norms, values, and networks within a local area.

• Policy: Broader systemic influences like laws, regulations, and public policies.

How does the socio-ecological model relate to motivation?

It highlights that interventions should target multiple levels (e.g., individual and community) to effectively foster sustained behavior change.

What are the different types of motivation?

Intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation and amotivation

What is intrinsic motivation?

Engaging in an activity for its inherent satisfaction and enjoyment. This type of motivation is driven by personal interest and the joy of the activity itself. “I exercise because I enjoy it.”

What is extrinsic motivation?

Engaging in an activity for external reasons, such as rewards or recognition. This can vary in the degree of self-determination, ranging from controlled forms (e.g., doing something to avoid punishment) to more autonomous forms (e.g., doing something for personal value).

What is extrinsic motivation: identified?

Valuing an activity’s benefits. “I value the health benefits of exercise.”

What is extrinsic motivation: introjected?

Acting out of guilt or obligation. “I exercise because I feel guilty if I don’t.”

What is extrinsic motivation: external?

Acting to gain rewards or avoid punishment. “I exercise because I’m pressured to.”

What is amotivation?

A lack of motivation where actions feel pointless or meaningless. “I wonder why I even bother exercising.”

What are causality orientations?

Tendencies to interpret the cause of one’s actions as internal or external.

What are the causality orientation: Autonomy-Oriented?

Sees actions as self-determined, growth-focused.

What are the causality orientation: Control-Oriented?

Focused on deadlines, rewards, or avoiding punishment.

What are the causality orientation: Impersonal-Oriented?

Feels outcomes are beyond personal control, leading to indifference.

What is a need-supportive style?

Behaviors that encourage autonomy, competence, and relatedness, fostering motivation and well-being.

What is a need-thwarting style?

Behaviors that undermine psychological needs, reducing motivation and engagement.

What are examples of need-supportive behaviors?

Offering choices, giving constructive feedback, fostering inclusion.

What are examples of need-thwarting behaviors?

Micromanaging, being overly critical, ignoring individual perspectives.

What are Behavior Change Techniques (BCTs)?

Small, observable components of interventions designed to promote behavior change (e.g., goal-setting, self-monitoring).

What are common features of SDT-based interventions?

• Support psychological needs.

• Shift motivation from controlled to autonomous.

• Include structured support like workshops and self-reflection.

What were the results of the Les Mills International instructor training program?

• Improved instructor communication styles.

• Increased participant motivation and class attendance.

What is the Aussie-FIT program?

A weight-loss and healthy living program using sports to engage overweight men.

What strategies did Aussie-FIT use?

Nutrition education, coach-led physical activity, habit formation, and technology like Fitbits and social media.

What were the outcomes of the Aussite-FIT program?

Significant weight loss, improved physical activity habits, and cost-effectiveness.

What are challenges in training individuals in need-supportive communication?

• Time and cost of training.

• Resistance due to perceived norms.

• Difficulty in deeply understanding SDT principles.

What external pressures impact interpersonal style?

• Job constraints.

• Performance evaluations.

• Cultural norms regarding effective instruction.

How can the Socio-Ecological Model improve interventions?

By addressing influences at multiple levels (e.g., individual, community, and policy), it creates more comprehensive and sustainable solutions.