Self-Determination Theory (SDT)

Self-determination theory (SDT) is a theory about the motivations of individuals developed by Deci and Ryan. Humans are motivated by external forces (rewards/punishment, judgment from others) and internal forces (interest in the subject, morals, desire). The interaction of these two major facets are the main component of SDT. Social influences can help or hinder motivation in individuals with external forces being influential in social learning. SDT also posits that an individual's independence, competence, and relatedness are all important in regards to motivation.