Self-Determination Theory

Define Self-Determination Theory (SDT).

Explains how and why people are motivated and how it affects performance.

What is the basic SDT hypothesis?

Humans strive to satisfy the needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

How does motivation vary across SDT?

From low self-determination (externally controlled) to high self-determination (self-driven).

How does self-determined motivation affect performance?

Increases persistence, enjoyment, and performance quality.

What is the organismic aspect of SDT?

Humans naturally strive to grow, develop, and fulfil their potential.

What is the dialectic aspect of SDT?

Motivation is influenced by interactions between individual and social environment.

List the three basic psychological needs.

Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness.

Define autonomy.

Need to make one’s own choices and feel in control.

Provide a sport example of autonomy.

Choosing to train because you enjoy it, not because you are told to.

Define competence.

Need to feel skilled and effective in an activity.

Provide a sport example of competence.

Improving basketball shooting or learning a gymnastics move.

Define relatedness.

Need to feel connected and valued by others.

Sport example of relatedness.

Playing on a team and feeling supported by teammates.

How do organismic and dialectic aspects interact?

Inner drive and environment work together to sustain motivation.