Self-Determination Theory

Self-Determination is a theory of human motivation developed by psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan. Motivation, in this context, is what moves us to act. The theory looks at the inherent, positive human tendency to move towards growth, and outlines three core needs which facilitate that growth. Those needs are autonomy, competence and relatedness.

Competence – The need to experience our behaviors as effectively enacted (to feel like we’ve done a good job). 

Autonomy – The need to experience behavior as voluntary and “…reflectively self-endorsed” (to feel like we have control over what we do).

Relatedness – The need to “…interact, be connected to, and experience caring for others” (to have meaningful relationships and interactions with other people).

Self-determination theory suggests that people are motivated to grow and change by these three innate and universal psychological needs.

Purely self-determined behaviors tend to be intrinsically driven and are done for enjoyment, interest, and inherent satisfaction for the action itself.

Self-determination can play an important role in how we function in many different areas of our lives. Feeling in control and intrinsically motivated can help us feel more committed, passionate, interested, and satisfied with the things that we do.

Self-determination theory can be helpful in understanding the things that might motivate your behaviors. Being self-determined, feeling like you have the autonomy and freedom to make choices that shape your destiny, is important for each person’s well-being. When you pursue things that are intrinsically motivated that are aligned with your goals, you will feel happier and more capable of making good choices.