Self-determination theory

People thrive when they feel they chose it, they are getting better at it, and someone they care about cares too. Take any of those away and motivation rots.

Definition

A theory of human motivation proposing that intrinsic motivation and wellbeing depend on satisfying three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

Step 1

Predict first

In one or two sentences, what do you think this concept means? Wrong is fine; the small struggle is what makes the answer stick.