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

Self-determination theory argues that people are motivated to learn, grow and change their lives, if their three basic psychological needs are satisfied: competence, connection, and autonomy. People who are unable to fulfill these three needs, may feel amotivation, or need extrinsic rewards to learn or make changes. They often experience little control over their own lives, no sense of self-determination, and often also poor mental health.