Which theory identifies autonomy, competence, and relatedness as the core psychological needs?

• A. Incentive Theory
• B. Intrinsic Motivation
• C. Self Determination Theory
• D. Extrinsic Motivation

Answer: (C)

Self-Determination Theory centers on three innate psychological needs—autonomy, competence, and relatedness—and explains how meeting these needs boosts intrinsic motivation and overall well-being. Autonomy is about feeling in control of one’s own actions, competence is about feeling capable and effective, and relatedness is about feeling connected to others. When environments support these needs, people tend to engage more fully and persist longer because the motivation comes from within rather than from external pressure.

This theory also outlines a spectrum of motivation from intrinsic to extrinsic, showing how satisfying these three needs leads to higher-quality, more self-determined motivation. The other ideas focus on different mechanisms: incentives and rewards external to the person, or simply motivation that arises from internal interest without asserting these universal needs.