Description

Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is a theory of human motivation and personal development proposed by Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan. SDT focuses on the social conditions that promote or hinder our natural ability for self-regulation and psychological growth. According to SDT, the satisfaction of three basic psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—is essential for development, well-being, and individual motivation.

Objective

The main objective of Self-Determination Theory is to explain how different types of motivation (intrinsic and extrinsic) affect individuals’ behavior and psychological health. In particular, SDT examines:
Intrinsic Motivation: Motivation that comes from internal satisfaction and interest in the activity itself.
Extrinsic Motivation: Motivation that comes from external rewards or pressures.
Basic Psychological Needs: The needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, which must be fulfilled for optimal functioning and well-being.

Analysis

The analysis of data and theoretical assumptions in SDT includes:
Structural Equation Modeling (SEM): Used to examine the relationships between psychological needs, motivations, and outcomes in well-being and performance.
Measurement of Basic Needs: Tools such as the Basic Psychological Needs Scale are used to measure the extent to which autonomy, competence, and relatedness are satisfied.
Analysis of Variance (ANOVA): Used to examine the effect of differences in social conditions on the satisfaction of basic needs and motivation.

Calibration

Calibration in SDT involves the development and use of reliable and valid tools for measuring psychological needs and types of motivation. This includes:
Measurement Tools: Such as the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI) and the Self-Regulation Questionnaires (SRQ) for measuring different types of motivations and regulations.
Psychometric Properties: Examination of reliability (e.g., Cronbach’s alpha) and validity (e.g., construct validity) of the tools.
Cross-Cultural Validation: Ensuring that the tools are valid and reliable across different cultural and social contexts.

References

Some key sources for Self-Determination Theory include:
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic Motivation and Self-Determination in Human Behavior. New York: Plenum.
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78.
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2002). Handbook of Self-Determination Research. Rochester, NY: University of Rochester Press.
Vansteenkiste, M., Niemiec, C. P., & Soenens, B. (2010). The development of the five mini-theories of self-determination theory: An historical overview, emerging trends, and future directions. In T. Urdan & S. Karabenick (Eds.), Advances in Motivation and Achievement (Vol. 16, pp. 105–166).