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Self-Determination Continuum

Meaning

A model, highly relevant to sustained behavioral change, that describes the spectrum of motivation from being entirely controlled by external factors (amotivation/extrinsic) to being fully self-regulated and integrated with one’s personal values (intrinsic). In the clinical setting, the goal is to facilitate a patient’s movement along this continuum toward more internalized forms of health regulation. This progression is a key indicator of long-term wellness success.