Determination Theory: Self-Determination Theory

Self-determination theory

SDT literature empirically differentiates extrinsic and intrinsic valuation of work. Within SDT an extrinsic value orientation emphasizes work motivation for material acquisition and security while an intrinsic value orientation emphasizes work motivation towards self-actualization and self-expression (Amabile, Hill, Hennessey, & Tighe, 1994; Baard, Deci, & Ryan, 2004; Hageström & Gamberale, 1995; Malka & Chatman, 2003; Vansteenkiste, Niemiec, & Soenens, 2006; Vansteenkiste et al., 2007). These value orientations have been related to job satisfaction and commitment (Butler & Vodanovich, 1992; Drummon & Stoddard, 1991). The theoretical basis of this relationship is that certain value orientations facilitate the satisfaction

Self-understanding and a capacity for objective acknowledgement and acceptance of core self-aspects are central aspects of Kernis and Goldman’s (2006) conception of authenticity and are necessary for self-acceptance. In their 2006 paper, A multicomponent conceptualization of authenticity: theory and research, Kernis and Goldman spend time expressing a debt to the same humanist and self-determination theories that intrinsic goal theory is carved from. The research by Wood et al. (2008), which uses the concept of “accepting external influence” aligns with an extrinsic orientation. Accepting external influence would be a very common practice for someone with an extrinsic goal orientation (i.e. concerned for popularity, attractiveness, and other’s perception); these behaviors wouldn’t be considered authentic in Wood’s conception of the

(2008) also involves behaving autonomously without influence by reward and punishment. The focus of materialism on status and wealth as necessarily involving attaining reward furthers the theoretically supported reasoning that low satisfaction of the need for autonomy would indicate both inauthenticity (particularly accepting external influences) and materialistic orientation. As discussed earlier and described in depth by Kasser (2002), the conflict between materialism and autonomy is a result of materialism deriving from an extrinsic motivational system that emphasizes reward and praise while diminishing the focus of motivation for enjoyment, interest, and “doing things for their own