Main Elements of Self Determination Theory Case Study

Main Elements of Self Determination Theory - Case Study Example This implies that SDT focuses on self-motivated and self-determined decisions. Since its inception in the 1970s, SDT has evolved to become a crucial element of social psychology based on empirical research. As mentioned, SDT is mainly anchored on intrinsic motivation. This refers to the need to partake in an activity due to the activity’s satisfactory value. Thus, this need is contrary to extrinsic motivation which refers to the engagement in a given activity in order to fulfill certain goals or obligations. Therefore, SDT can be said to be centered on the following crucial elements: Â  As mentioned, intrinsic motivation refers to the naturally occurring motivation in the event of engaging in certain occurrences (Deci and Ryan, 2005: 49). Therefore, this motivation is highly associated with social development. Cognitive evaluation is a necessary tool in the assessment of the degree of intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation may, thus, be cultivated through the employment of social context events such as rewarding systems. Therefore, intrinsic motivation must be backed by the necessary environment in order to result in the desired self-cultivated drive (Ryan and Deci, 2010: 68). Â  Contrary to intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation is based on external influence. However, external motivations may also be internalized through various processes, thus, contributing significantly to social development. Extrinsic motivation, thus, forms a crucial element of SDT. Extrinsically motivated behaviors may take various forms. However, their integration into an individual’s lives provides the required platform for self-motivation. Â