Self-Determination Theory and Its Importance on Physical Activity Interventions

Self-Determination Theory
Question 1 Self-determination theory is a vital concept the explains the ability of an individual to choose and administrate their lives. This is vital in human beings because it establishes the psychological wellbeing of the person. In essence, self-determination theory enables individuals to perceive that they can control and determine their choices about life issues (R. M. Ryan & Deci, 2000). Notably, it has a direct impact on the motivation levels of the person, hence the need to utilize this framework in designing physical activities in psychological interventions. The basis of the theory is to make people feel motivated and take actions in order to have an impact on the final outcome of a certain intervention (Deci & Ryan, 1985). In this regard, the people are able to determine themselves what they will be doing during the interventions in order to attain the desired end. The theory has been used in different circumstances because of its direct benefits in persons. Some of the areas where the theory has been applied include education, work, parenting, and health (Sheldon et al., 2008). All these areas are vital in fostering positivity and motivating individuals to take action towards certain goals. In summary, the self-determination theory illustrates that people’s actions are motivated by their individual desire to change or outgrow certain conditions. There are three major psychological aspects that motivate the people based on the self-determination theory (R. Ryan, 2009). The need for connection, competence, and autonomy are the basis for self-determination, which makes it useful in designing physical activities during interventions. The actions of people are influenced by these three major psychological needs. Therefore, self-determination theory becomes and important component in ensuring that people are fulfilled and remain motivated during the interventions (Ng et al., 2012). The engagement in certain activities that are self-determined lead to inherent benefits. This is the foundational goal of the framework; hence, its importance in designing of physical activities. People adopt certain behaviors because they desire to grow and attain certain goals (Deci et al., 1994). Moreover, the need to become autonomous and never depend on others is also a basis of self-determination theory. People want to be in control of their own lives as well as gain mastery of tasks and skills. Another aspect is the need to feel connected or belonging to a certain context or social group. This also motivates certain actions in people. Based on the foregoing arguments, the self-determination theory is an important element in designing physical activity interventions (R. M. Ryan & Deci, 2017). Question 2 If  one evaluates the times he or she has felt motivated, they can easily understand or determine the evidence to support the use of self-determination theory. One of the basic evidence in self-determination theory is the level of energy that is based on the autonomy, competence, and connection earned through self-determined activities (R. M. Ryan & Deci, 2017). The first evidence that supports the use of self-determination theory is the desire for competence and perfection when doing thing...