Question 1

What is the Meaning of Self-Determination Theory?

Accepted Answer

Self-Determination Theory is a macro-theory of human motivation and personality, proposing three innate psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. When satisfied, these universal needs are essential for optimal human functioning, psychological well-being, and personal growth. The framework explains how social environments influence motivation quality and overall health trajectory.

Question 2

What is the Context of Self-Determination Theory?

Accepted Answer

This theory directly influences physiological systems by shaping psychological regulation and stress responses. Satisfying psychological needs impacts the HPA axis and autonomic nervous system. Chronic psychological distress from unmet needs can lead to sustained cortisol elevation and sympathetic activation, affecting metabolic health, immune function, and cardiovascular regulation.

Question 3

What is the Significance of Self-Determination Theory?

Accepted Answer

In clinical practice, understanding Self-Determination Theory is crucial for enhancing patient engagement and adherence to therapeutic regimens. Patients perceiving care as supportive of their autonomy, competence, and relatedness are more likely to actively participate in treatment, manage chronic conditions, and sustain positive lifestyle changes. This improves clinical outcomes and patient well-being.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of Self-Determination Theory?

Accepted Answer

When individuals experience support for autonomy (volition), competence (effectiveness), and relatedness (connection), intrinsic motivation for health behaviors increases. This internal drive reduces psychological strain, leading to a balanced neuroendocrine profile. Reduced chronic stress regulates cortisol and neurotransmitter activity, supporting cellular repair, metabolic efficiency, immune resilience, and homeostasis.

Question 5

What is the Application of Self-Determination Theory?

Accepted Answer

Self-Determination Theory guides patient-centered communication, like motivational interviewing, respecting patient choice and building confidence. It informs health coaching for personal health goals, including dietary modifications or physical activity. Clinicians use its principles to structure alliances promoting patient ownership, improving medication adherence and self-management.

Question 6

What is the Metric of Self-Determination Theory?

Accepted Answer

The constructs of Self-Determination Theory are primarily assessed using validated psychological scales and self-report questionnaires. These instruments measure an individual's perceived satisfaction of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, alongside their motivational styles. Clinical observations of patient engagement, persistence, and qualitative well-being reports also indicate the theory's impact on health state.

Question 7

What is the Risk of Self-Determination Theory?

Accepted Answer

Misapplication of Self-Determination Theory principles, particularly through controlling or coercive clinical approaches, presents significant risks. When patients feel pressured or their autonomy is disregarded, it diminishes intrinsic motivation, leading to resistance, non-adherence, and disengagement. This can exacerbate psychological distress, contributing to chronic stress-related physiological dysregulation and poorer long-term health outcomes.

Self-Determination Theory

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

What Are the Key Differences between a Voluntary and a Coercive Wellness Program?

Provided by the clinical team
at 4Ever Young Miami Dadeland

-15% ∞ HRTIO15

Your protocol begins with a conversation.

Visit

Schedule Appointment

About

Med & Wellness

4Ever Young Miami Dadeland

Communication

+1 786-529-6686

Email Us

Opening Hours