Self-determination Theory Needs

The Self-determination Theory (SDT), developed by psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, explains human motivation and psychological well-being. It emphasizes that fulfilling certain innate psychological needs is crucial for growth, integrity, and well-being.

Core Psychological Needs in SDT

SDT identifies three fundamental, universal psychological needs:

• Competence: The need to feel effective and capable in dealing with the environment. This involves seeking challenges and opportunities to learn and grow.
• Relatedness: The need to feel connected to others, characterized by warmth, belonging, and care. This involves forming secure and satisfying relationships.
• Autonomy: The need to feel volitional and self-endorsed in one's actions. This means experiencing a sense of choice and freedom in how one behaves, rather than feeling pressured or controlled.

Analysis of Options

Based on the theory, the basic needs focused on by Deci and Ryan are:

• Competence (C): Directly aligns with the theory.
• Relatedness (D): Directly aligns with the theory.
• Autonomy (E): Directly aligns with the theory.

Creativity (A) and Engagement (B) are often outcomes or facilitators of need satisfaction within SDT but are not considered the core basic needs themselves.

Conclusion

Therefore, the three basic needs identified by Self-determination theory for explaining well-being are Competence, Relatedness, and Autonomy (C, D, E).