This paper explores the self-determination theory or SDT. It is presented as a theory of human motivation. It states that people are driven by the need to grow and develop a stable sense of self. The self-determination theory specifically characterizes motivation by being intrinsic or extrinsic. According to research put forth by Deci, Ryan, and Guay (2013), behavior that is conducted “out of interest or enjoyment” is considered intrinsic, while behavior that is “motivated by values that are fully internalized and integrated” is considered extrinsic. Balanced motivation is called “emotion-motivated behaviors” This implies that behavior is “well integrated.” In the self-determination theory, there are three basic psychological needs- competency,
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This means that the whole person is motivated, not just parts of a person. The concept most associated with Maslow is the hierarchy of needs. When compared to the self-determination theory, Maslow’s motivational hierarchy consists of five basic needs- physiological, safety-security, love and belongingness, esteem, and self-actualization. Self-actualization is the highest level in the hierarchy and is successfully achieved by very few people. This implies that the other four needs must be fulfilled before reaching the “top” of the hierarchy. Researchers conducted a study, in the form of a questionnaire, to measure Maslow’s five basic needs. After collecting data from 386 ethnic Chinese participants aged 19 to 67 years, results showed that underemployed people scored lower on the self-actualization portion of a questionnaire than professionals. In fact, only 5% of the 386 respondents scored high enough to achieve self-actualization. These results proved consistent with Maslow’s claim that few people reach self-actualization. (Taormina, & Gao, 2013). The main idea to extract from this is that the self-determination theory addresses the elements behind motivation that self-actualization does not. It expands on the specifics needed to fully maximize motivation by stating methods of achieving it through different varying levels of regulation, including integrated regulation and …show more content…
Self-actualization is not specifically defined and achieving it is a very challenging undertaking. If you stride to live a well-balanced life, you will experience positive satisfaction. If I were to offer any advice, I would say to consider all the options. Find ways to be motivated both intrinsically and extrinsically. You might find that motivation is more effective when it comes intrinsically. On the other hand, you may use think extrinsic motivation is easier to come by. Don’t limit yourself to one component. Use the elements of motivation to your advantage. One way to increase intrinsic motivation to others is to offer spontaneous, out-of-the-blue positive suggestions or encouragement. People generally like to feel good or competent (a basic psychological need) and offering simple advice or criticisms can help them achieve personal growth. Many people tend to shy away from providing feedback, fearing they might accidently insult someone, but in order to maintain and expand on personal growth, one must be open to listening to feedback, positive or negative. Another thing to look out for is over-extending rewards for certain behaviors. This can disrupt established or developing autonomy, a basic psychological need. So if you have a friend or family member that needs help with a test, public speaking or a presentation, don’t be afraid to offer positive feedback or advice. It will help in the long
This means that the whole person is motivated, not just parts of a person. The concept most associated with Maslow is the hierarchy of needs. When compared to the self-determination theory, Maslow’s motivational hierarchy consists of five basic needs- physiological, safety-security, love and belongingness, esteem, and self-actualization. Self-actualization is the highest level in the hierarchy and is successfully achieved by very few people. This implies that the other four needs must be fulfilled before reaching the “top” of the hierarchy. Researchers conducted a study, in the form of a questionnaire, to measure Maslow’s five basic needs. After collecting data from 386 ethnic Chinese participants aged 19 to 67 years, results showed that underemployed people scored lower on the self-actualization portion of a questionnaire than professionals. In fact, only 5% of the 386 respondents scored high enough to achieve self-actualization. These results proved consistent with Maslow’s claim that few people reach self-actualization. (Taormina, & Gao, 2013). The main idea to extract from this is that the self-determination theory addresses the elements behind motivation that self-actualization does not. It expands on the specifics needed to fully maximize motivation by stating methods of achieving it through different varying levels of regulation, including integrated regulation and …show more content…
Self-actualization is not specifically defined and achieving it is a very challenging undertaking. If you stride to live a well-balanced life, you will experience positive satisfaction. If I were to offer any advice, I would say to consider all the options. Find ways to be motivated both intrinsically and extrinsically. You might find that motivation is more effective when it comes intrinsically. On the other hand, you may use think extrinsic motivation is easier to come by. Don’t limit yourself to one component. Use the elements of motivation to your advantage. One way to increase intrinsic motivation to others is to offer spontaneous, out-of-the-blue positive suggestions or encouragement. People generally like to feel good or competent (a basic psychological need) and offering simple advice or criticisms can help them achieve personal growth. Many people tend to shy away from providing feedback, fearing they might accidently insult someone, but in order to maintain and expand on personal growth, one must be open to listening to feedback, positive or negative. Another thing to look out for is over-extending rewards for certain behaviors. This can disrupt established or developing autonomy, a basic psychological need. So if you have a friend or family member that needs help with a test, public speaking or a presentation, don’t be afraid to offer positive feedback or advice. It will help in the long