Which three basic psychological needs are central to Self-Determination Theory?

Which three basic psychological needs are central to Self-Determination Theory?

• A. Autonomy, Competence, Relatedness
• B. Security, Attachment, Autonomy
• C. Pleasure, Achievement, Flow
• D. Meaning, Mastery, Control

Answer: (A)

Self-Determination Theory focuses on three fundamental psychological needs that, when met, support intrinsic motivation, growth, and well-being. The first is autonomy—the sense that you are choosing and endorsing your actions rather than feeling pressured or coerced. In adolescence, autonomy support from adults—giving meaningful choices, acknowledging feelings, and avoiding controlling comments—helps teens invest in their activities because they feel self-directed. The second is competence—the experience of effectiveness and progress in tasks. Adolescents thrive when they have opportunities to develop skills, receive constructive feedback, and feel they can meet challenges. When competence is satisfied, activities feel solvable and rewarding, which boosts persistence and engagement. The third is relatedness—the feeling of connection, care, and belonging with others. A sense of belonging with family, peers, and teachers provides emotional safety and social support, which strengthens motivation and well-being during the often turbulent teen years. These three needs are considered universal drivers of motivation and well-being, and when they are satisfied, teens are more likely to engage in activities for their own interest and value rather than for external pressure. In contrast, the other options mix elements like safety, attachment, pleasure, or mastery, but they do not capture the exact trio identified by Self-Determination Theory.

Self-Determination Theory focuses on three fundamental psychological needs that, when met, support intrinsic motivation, growth, and well-being. The first is autonomy—the sense that you are choosing and endorsing your actions rather than feeling pressured or coerced. In adolescence, autonomy support from adults—giving meaningful choices, acknowledging feelings, and avoiding controlling comments—helps teens invest in their activities because they feel self-directed.

The second is competence—the experience of effectiveness and progress in tasks. Adolescents thrive when they have opportunities to develop skills, receive constructive feedback, and feel they can meet challenges. When competence is satisfied, activities feel solvable and rewarding, which boosts persistence and engagement.

The third is relatedness—the feeling of connection, care, and belonging with others. A sense of belonging with family, peers, and teachers provides emotional safety and social support, which strengthens motivation and well-being during the often turbulent teen years.

These three needs are considered universal drivers of motivation and well-being, and when they are satisfied, teens are more likely to engage in activities for their own interest and value rather than for external pressure. In contrast, the other options mix elements like safety, attachment, pleasure, or mastery, but they do not capture the exact trio identified by Self-Determination Theory.