Richard M. Ryan & Edward L. Deci (2017)
Authoritative SDT synthesis linking autonomy, competence, and relatedness support to motivation, development, and wellness across life domains.
Ryan and Deci provide a comprehensive, theory-driven synthesis of self-determination theory, integrating its six mini-theories with a broad empirical evidence base. It clarifies how supporting versus thwarting the basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness shapes motivation, development, and well-being across the lifespan. The book’s value is in translating SDT into actionable implications for practice and policy in settings like education, health care, psychotherapy, sport, and work.
Integrative theoretical review and synthesis of SDT concepts, evidence, and applied implications across domains.
Basic familiarity with motivation psychology, especially intrinsic/extrinsic motivation and the SDT needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness.
A key comprehensive book on self-determination theory. If you don’t want to read all the articles and want a single source, you won’t find a better option.
— ES