Self-Determination Theory: 3 Basic Needs That Drive Our Behavior

Summary

The video script explores the Self Determination Theory, which posits that autonomy, competence, and connection are the three fundamental needs driving human behavior. It outlines a motivation spectrum ranging from amotivation to intrinsic motivation, using six characters to illustrate different stages of extrinsic and intrinsic motivation. The theory, developed by Ryan and Deci, highlights how external rewards like money can diminish intrinsic motivation. The video invites viewers to reflect on their motivations and the impact of external factors on their intrinsic drive.

Takeaways

• 💡 The Self Determination Theory suggests that three basic needs drive our behavior: autonomy, competence, and connection.
• 🚫 Offering payment for blood donation can lead to a decline in willingness to help, possibly due to the undermining of intrinsic motivation.
• 📊 Motivation can range from non-self-determined to self-determined, with six distinct types along this spectrum.
• 🤔 Anton represents amotivation, feeling disconnected and lacking autonomy and competence in his studies.
• 🏆 Mary exemplifies extrinsic motivation where external rewards regulate her behavior, affecting her autonomy.
• 💪 Taichi's motivation is introjected, striving to outperform others, which is also an external form of extrinsic motivation.
• 🎓 Abeni's motivation is driven by identification with the idea of being a good student, which is another form of extrinsic motivation.
• 🌟 John is motivated by an integrated regulation, aiming to live up to an ideal, which is still a form of extrinsic motivation.
• 🔍 Lalisa embodies intrinsic motivation, learning out of curiosity and enjoyment, which satisfies her autonomy, competence, and connection.
• 🌐 Cultural differences can influence motivation, with American students often learning to outcompete and Chinese students feeling guilty if not meeting expectations.
• 💭 Deci points out that while money can motivate, it can also undermine intrinsic motivation, suggesting a complex relationship between extrinsic and intrinsic rewards.

Q & A

Why might people decline to donate blood when they are offered payment?

According to the script, offering payment could undermine intrinsic motivation. People may initially donate blood out of a sense of connection and autonomy, but the introduction of payment could make it seem like the act is no longer voluntary and altruistic, thus reducing their willingness to participate.

What are the three basic needs that Self Determination Theory suggests drive our behavior?

The three basic needs are autonomy, competence, and connection. Autonomy is the desire to make our own choices, competence is the feeling of having the skills to do a task, and connection is the experience of belonging and being needed.

What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation according to the script?

Intrinsic motivation comes from within and is driven by personal interest and enjoyment in the activity itself. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is driven by external factors such as rewards, recognition, or the avoidance of negative consequences.

Can you explain the concept of 'amotivation' as described in the script?

Amotivation is a state where an individual lacks the intention to act and does not see the value or relevance in engaging in a behavior. In the script, Anton feels disconnected from the material and his need for competence and autonomy is unsatisfied, leading to amotivation.

How does the script describe the progression from non-self-determined to self-determined motivation?

The script outlines a spectrum of motivation ranging from amotivation to intrinsic motivation. It includes six distinct types represented by different characters, each illustrating a different level of autonomy and connection to the task at hand.

What is the role of rewards in Mary's motivation to study according to the script?

Mary's motivation is extrinsically regulated, meaning she is motivated by external rewards. She studies because she knows she will be rewarded, but without the presence of these rewards, she feels disconnected and her motivation decreases.

Why does Taichi feel guilt when he doesn't perform as well as others?

Taichi is motivated by introjected regulation, which is an extrinsic form of motivation. He strives to win or match the performance of others, and when he can't, his desires for competence and autonomy are not satisfied, leading to feelings of guilt.

What does Abeni value about learning and how does it relate to her motivation?

Abeni values learning because it confirms her self-image as a good student. She is motivated by regulation through identification, an extrinsic form of motivation, where she identifies with the idea of being a good student, even if she doesn't feel connected to the material.

How does John's motivation differ from Abeni's according to the script?

John's motivation is also extrinsic but at a higher level of self-determination. He is motivated by integrated regulation, where he values learning because it helps him become a better human being and develop his intellect, even if the task is not inherently interesting to him.

What characterizes Lalisa's motivation and why is it considered intrinsic?

Lalisa's motivation is intrinsic because she learns out of curiosity and enjoyment. She feels completely connected to the material and experiences a deep sense of satisfaction from studying, which indicates a high level of autonomy and competence.

How does the script suggest we can regain self-determination when we feel amotivated?

The script suggests taking a break, seeking a change in environment, or connecting with other people as ways to regain self-determination when feeling amotivated.

What is the cultural perspective on motivation presented in the script?

The script mentions cultural differences in motivation, noting that American students often learn to outcompete others, while Chinese students may study hard due to feelings of guilt if they do not meet expectations.

How does Deci view the relationship between money and intrinsic motivation?

Deci suggests that while money can be a motivator, it can also undermine intrinsic motivation. This implies that external rewards like money can diminish the personal interest and enjoyment in a task.

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