Human Growth and Development / Unit 12 HGD 1673 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Self-Determination Theory
The idea
Self-determination theory, from Ryan and Deci, holds that well-being is greatest when three psychological needs are met in balance. Autonomy is the need to direct one's own choices. Competence is the need to feel capable and effective. Relatedness is the need for connection with others. Life changes can raise one need and lower another.
In practice
A new job in a distant city raising a young adult's autonomy and competence while cutting her relatedness, as she leaves friends and family behind.
Where people slip
The theory also underlies unit six's distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation: activities that satisfy these needs tend to be intrinsically motivating. Exam items describe a need and ask for its name: choice is autonomy, mastery is competence, and belonging is relatedness.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
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