Ryan & Deci: Self Determination Theory (SDT) – Content Models of Motivation
Ryan & Deci are the founders of Self Determination Theory (SDT). It’s possibly the most substantial modern body of research on motivation. As such, it is essential for modern managers to understand the basics.
Watching this video is worth 3 Management Courses CPD Points*.
(See below for more details)
This video is part of course module number 3.7.3
Program 3: Managing and Leading Individuals
Course 7: Motivation
Section 3: Content Models of Motivation
Primary videos that precede this video include:
Introduction to Motivation https://youtu.be/hbPGqPLv2s4
The Fundamentals of Motivation https://youtu.be/IVjnAZ-8-dY
Primary Content (or needs) Models of Motivation videos include:
– Abraham Maslow & The Hierarchy of Needs https://youtu.be/gz5zNx3KnrE
– Clayton Alderfer & ERG Theory https://youtu.be/a01zosRYGnk
– Frederick Herzberg & Two Factor Theory https://youtu.be/f_qyDfZYfXQ
– David McClelland & Three Motivational Needs Theory https://youtu.be/jxNhGE3gPcA
– Daniel Pink & Motivation 3.0 https://youtu.be/5A5vxXwv92Q
LESSON NOTES
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Richard Ryan and Edward Deci created Self Determination Theory (SDT). Their research focuses on:
– Dominant role of Intrinsic Motivation in behavior. Intrinsic Motivation is our natural drive to satisfy internal needs.
– Conditions under which Extrinsic Motivation will & won’t work. Extrinsic Motivation comes from outside us.
Social context provides extrinsic motivators & inhibitors.
An individual has an inherent tendency toward action & growth. But we need to be nurtured by our external environment to fulfill that potential.
We have three fundamental, innate needs. Ryan & Deci call them Psychological Nutrients. Fulfilling all three is essential for wellbeing and effective functioning. If any is unmet, our motivation falls. They are:
1. Autonomy (Primary)
Ability to make our own choices. Extrinsic rewards that aim to boost intrinsically motivated behavior will undermine autonomy and so frustrate motivation
2. Competence
Control over outcomes, experience, mastery, self-confidence. Unexpected feedback has a direct impact on intrinsic motivation.
3. Relatedness
Interaction, caring, security of relationships
Compare this with our videos on the work of:
Clayton Alderfer: https://youtu.be/a01zosRYGnk
David McClelland: https://youtu.be/jxNhGE3gPcA
Our Intrinsic motivation for autonomy and competence needs a sense of security. That arises from relatedness. Without a nurturing environment, we can’t feel safe in asserting autonomy – though we may do so as a form of control-taking to combat uncertainty or even fear.
We find extrinsic motivators effective only when they don’t rob us of our sense of autonomy. We are only comfortable with external regulation when we are secure in our social relationships. Otherwise, we feel it as controlling
Also review our next video: Daniel Pink & Motivation 3.0 https://youtu.be/5A5vxXwv92Q
RECOMMENDED EXERCISE
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1. Think about your own experiences. When have well-intentioned attempts to offer extrinsic motivation had little or no effect – or maybe an adverse effect – on your motivation? (2 MC CPD Points)
2. Think about how you motivate your team. To what extent are you providing rich opportunities for autonomy, competence, and relatedness? What else can you do to use the principles of Self Determination Theory to improve motivation of your team? (4 MC CPD Points)
DOWNLOADS
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RECOMMENDED READING
=====================
Why do We do what We do: Understanding Self Motivation (Edward Deci) https://geni.us/KrBjgvY
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us https://geni.us/uq3EBO
For a solid introduction to motivation:
HBR Guide to Motivating People https://geni.us/sO2IKgn
The best of modern thinking on motivation, in accessible business books. These are all modern classics:
– Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone To Take Action https://geni.us/vjErAN
– Lead, Motivate, Engage: How to INSPIRE Your Team to Win at Work https://geni.us/ABkZEx
– Multipliers, Revised and Updated: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smart https://geni.us/E39I
– Payoff: The Hidden Logic That Shapes Our Motivations https://geni.us/uMaP
– The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work https://geni.us/tiEkeH
Management Courses Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Points
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