Self-determination theory
A theory of motivation according to which people engage in what they do of their own accord when three basic needs are met: autonomy, competence and relatedness.
What problem it addresses
It explains why rewards and pressure can take away the desire to do something that used to be done for enjoyment.
Principles
Autonomy
Feeling that you choose what you do.
Competence
Feeling capable and that you are improving.
Relatedness
Feeling connected to other people.
An example
An illustrative example: a language-learning app wants people to practice every day.
When the three needs are met, motivation lasts longer than motivation that depends on a reward.
Why it happens
Doing something for enjoyment depends on feeling free and capable.
A controlling reward changes the reason: we no longer do it for enjoyment.
If the reward disappears, so does the desire.
Applications in design
Use it like this
Check whether your product lets people choose, shows real progress and connects them with others.
Avoid
Basing all motivation on points, streaks and notifications that compel.
Don’t fall for it
Rewards aren’t bad in themselves: the problem appears when they control instead of inform.
128 studies
What the research says
Tangible rewards announced in advance reduced interest in continuing the task; praise increased it (Deci, Koestner and Ryan, 1999).
Solid evidence. The effect depends on the type of reward and how it is given, and other authors have debated its size.
Connections
Authors and works
- 1985
Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan
Formulated the theory from their experiments on intrinsic motivation.
- 2000
Richard M. Ryan and Edward L. Deci
Summarized the three basic needs and their link to well-being.
- 1999
Edward L. Deci, Richard Koestner and Richard M. Ryan
Analyzed 128 experiments on the effect of rewards on motivation.
Sources
Original sources
- Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behavior. Plenum.
Academic reviews
- Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68–78. View source: Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000)
- Deci, E. L., Koestner, R., & Ryan, R. M. (1999). A meta-analytic review of experiments examining the effects of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 125(6), 627–668. View source: Deci, E. L., Koestner, R., & Ryan, R. M. (1999)
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