Self-Determination Theory (SDT)

Overview

Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985, 2000) posits that human motivation varies in quality along a continuum of autonomy, from amotivation through external regulation to fully intrinsic motivation. Optimal functioning and well-being depend on satisfying three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

When to Use

• Diagnosing why engagement or performance has declined after introducing incentives
• Designing reward systems that avoid undermining intrinsic motivation
• Evaluating organizational or educational environments for need satisfaction
• Understanding motivation quality beyond simple "motivated vs. unmotivated" framing

When NOT to Use

• When behavior is driven purely by survival needs or physiological deprivation
• As a substitute for structural analysis (e.g., resource constraints mistaken for motivation issues)
• When the context requires a trait-based personality model rather than a motivational framework