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Autonomy Support And Self-Determination Theory

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Through the collection of research, it has been noted that training and development (T&D) has a positive connection with intrinsic aspects of human needs within the workplace. Autonomy support and the self-determination theory (SDT) were found to be the most common concepts in relation to training and development and intrinsic human needs. Autonomy support (or autonomy-supportive teaching) relates to “the interpersonal behavior teachers provide during instruction to identify, nurture, and build students’ inner motivational resources” (Deci, 1975; Reeve, Deci, & Ryan, 2004). Self-determination theory is a theory of motivation that suggests that people tend to be driven toward growth and “distinguishes between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations” …show more content…

These tips refer to autonomy-supportive teaching to medical interns, but some of the tips outlined in the paper could also be applied more broadly in routine training and development within business organizations. For example, having a person’s internal state guide their behavior - this helps create a state of self-determined motivation (autonomy), individuals that let their own internal state guide their behavior are more attentive in a work environment. Another relevant tip is positive feedback, which can be incorporated when an individual reaches the desired outcome (competence) and this action is confirmed and acknowledged from a higher figure or co-worker. Finally, providing emotional support (relatedness), enhances intrinsic motivation among individuals (Deci & Ryan, 2000b). These tips provide valuable insight on how to apply training and development in a positive way, while at the same time, fulfilling the psychological needs associated with more positive behavior in the workplace. This also supports the need for autonomy-supportive teaching within training and development programs. By outlining three tips from this study, a clear example is given of how to incorporate intrinsic motivation support that backs up the three psychological needs for self-determination. Conversely, the relationship between training and development and intrinsic need satisfaction is

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