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Self-Determination Theory (SDT) is a theory of motivation. It is concerned with supporting our natural or intrinsic tendencies to behave in effective and healthy ways. SDT has been researched and practiced by a network of researchers around the world.
The theory was initially developed by Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan at the University of Rochester, and has been elaborated and refined by scholars from many countries. Deci and Ryan are professors in the Department of Clinical and Social Sciences in Psychology at the University of Rochester, where they direct a pre- and post-doctoral training program focused on SDT.
This website presents a brief overview of SDT and provides resources that address important issues such as human needs, values, intrinsic motivation, development, motivation across cultures, individual differences, and psychological well-being. Also addressed are the applications of Self-Determination Theory to:
Announcements
- Breaking News: The Fifth International Conference on Self-Determination Theory will be held in Montréal, Québec, Canada hosted by Concordia University, from May 30 to June 2, 2013. The organizing committee is Marylène Gagné (chair), Richard Koestner, Nathalie Houlfort, and Robert Vallerand. More information will become available over time.
SDT Featured in News
- Video: “The High Price of Materialism,” released by SDT Faculty Member Tim Kasser, is a short animated video about America's culture of consumerism and its undermining effects on well-being.
- Interview: In an interview with ABC News, Richard Ryan discusses coming out as gay, lesbian, or bisexual, and how the environment influences the coming out process. This research was conducted by Nicole Legate, Richard Ryan and Netta Weinstein.
- Now Available: "Human Autonomy in Cross-Cultural Context: Perspectives on the Psychology of Agency, Freedom and Well-Being" edited by Valery I. Chirkov, Richard M. Ryan, and Kennon M. Sheldon. Features SDT faculty Assor, Chirkov, Deci, Gagné, Kasser, Knee, Pelletier, Reeve, Ryan, Sheldon, Teixeira, Williams and others.
- Available: Photos & Full Conference Program from the 4th International SDT Conference
New SDT Journal Articles
- Weinstein, Deci & Ryan (2011). "Motivational determinants of integrating positive and negative past identities": Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 100, 527-544.
- Silva, Markland, et al. (2011). "Exercise autonomous motivation predicts 3-yr weight loss in women."Medicine and Science in Sport and Exercise, (DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e3181f3818f).