grad-sdt

Installation
SKILL.md

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
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