Ryan & Deci (2000) – Self-Determination Theory and Well-being
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This article presents Self-Determination Theory as a macro-theory of human motivation. The authors distinguish various forms of motivation, ranging from intrinsic to controlled, and describe how social context influences the quality of motivation through the support or frustration of three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness.
Methodology
Theoretical review article based on multiple decades of empirical research within various domains such as education, work, sports, and health.
Key findings
Supporting autonomy, competence, and relatedness is consistently associated with higher quality motivation, greater well-being, better performance, and more sustainable behavior. Quality of motivation appears to be more important than mere quantity of motivation.
Practical implication for leadership
Leaders primarily influence motivation not through control or pressure, but by creating a context that supports basic psychological needs. Autonomy-supportive leadership contributes to sustainable engagement and performance.
Meaning of INR
This publication supports the premise within INR that behavior and the quality of motivation are not separate from the social context. When basic needs are met, not only does behavior change, but so does the internal interpretation of that behavior. Within the Narrative framework, this means that the quality of perceived need fulfillment indirectly influences the personal narrative that an individual develops.