Which need refers to feeling capable and effective?

• A. Autonomy
• B. Relatedness
• C. Intrinsic Motivation
• D. Competence

Answer: (D)

The main concept here is the need for competence: feeling capable and effective in what you do. In Self-Determination Theory, competence is the drive to master tasks, overcome challenges, and perform with skill. When you experience progress, receive constructive feedback, and see your abilities grow, you feel more confident and motivated to keep going. This is different from autonomy, which is about having control and choice over actions, and relatedness, which is about feeling connected to others. Intrinsic motivation is the kind of motivation you have to do something for its own sake, not a basic need itself. So, the need that corresponds to feeling capable and effective is competence.