Edward Deci

Definition

Edward Deci is a renowned psychologist who has made significant contributions to the field of motivation theory. His work has focused on understanding the factors that drive human behavior and the different types of motivation that influence individual actions and decision-making.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Deci's research has demonstrated that intrinsic motivation, which arises from within the individual, is more effective and leads to greater well-being and performance than extrinsic motivation, which is driven by external factors.
2. According to Deci's Self-Determination Theory, the three basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness must be satisfied for individuals to experience optimal motivation and personal growth.
3. Deci's work has shown that the use of extrinsic rewards, such as monetary incentives or praise, can actually undermine intrinsic motivation, a phenomenon known as the 'overjustification effect'.
4. Deci has emphasized the importance of supporting individuals' autonomy and providing them with opportunities for self-direction and choice, as this fosters intrinsic motivation and leads to better outcomes.
5. Deci's research has had a significant impact on various fields, including education, organizational psychology, and health-related behaviors, by highlighting the importance of creating environments that nurture intrinsic motivation and support basic psychological needs.

Review Questions

• Explain how Edward Deci's Self-Determination Theory relates to the concept of motivation in the workplace.
  • According to Deci's Self-Determination Theory, individuals have three basic psychological needs - autonomy, competence, and relatedness - that must be satisfied for them to experience optimal motivation and engagement. In the workplace, this means that employees are more likely to be intrinsically motivated and perform at their best when they have a sense of autonomy over their work, feel competent in their abilities, and experience a sense of connection and belonging within the organization. Managers who can create an environment that supports these basic needs are more likely to foster intrinsic motivation and better outcomes, rather than relying solely on extrinsic rewards or punishments.
• Describe the concept of the 'overjustification effect' as it relates to Deci's research on motivation.
  • The 'overjustification effect' refers to Deci's finding that the use of extrinsic rewards, such as monetary incentives or praise, can actually undermine an individual's intrinsic motivation to engage in a task or activity. When people are rewarded for doing something they already find intrinsically motivating, they may begin to attribute their behavior to the external reward rather than their own internal drive or enjoyment. This can lead to a decrease in intrinsic motivation over time, as the individual becomes more focused on obtaining the external reward rather than the inherent satisfaction of the activity itself. Deci's research has highlighted the importance of supporting intrinsic motivation rather than relying solely on extrinsic motivators, as the latter can have detrimental effects on long-term engagement and performance.
• Analyze how Deci's emphasis on the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in his Self-Determination Theory can be applied to the design of educational or training programs.
  • Deci's Self-Determination Theory suggests that educational or training programs should be designed to support the three basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in order to foster intrinsic motivation and optimal learning outcomes. This could involve providing students or trainees with opportunities for choice and self-direction (autonomy), designing activities and assessments that allow them to experience a sense of mastery and skill development (competence), and creating a learning environment that promotes a sense of belonging and social connection (relatedness). By addressing these fundamental needs, educators and trainers can create a more engaging and motivating learning experience, where individuals are driven by their own internal drive to learn and grow, rather than solely relying on external rewards or punishments. This approach has been shown to lead to better retention of information, deeper engagement, and more positive attitudes towards the learning process.

Related terms

Self-Determination Theory:

A theory of motivation developed by Deci and his colleague Richard Ryan, which posits that individuals have three innate psychological needs - autonomy, competence, and relatedness - that must be satisfied for optimal growth, integrity, and well-being.

Intrinsic Motivation:

The internal drive to engage in an activity for its own sake, out of interest, enjoyment, or a sense of personal fulfillment, rather than for external rewards or pressures.

Extrinsic Motivation:

The motivation to engage in an activity in order to obtain a separate outcome, such as a reward, recognition, or to avoid punishment.