Theoretical Perspective
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The Self-Determination Theory
According to the theory on self-determination, human beings have a ‘perceived locus of casualty’ which is external. It allows them to have confidence that coerces their actions, pressures, and initiates their selves. In matters that concern a PLOC, which is internal, people tend to believe that they are the sustainers and initiators of the actions they are engaged in. There are people who have extremely high PLOC, and in turn, are quite self determined. They believe that their behavior is as a result of their interests, values and choices. Moreover, those who have a PLOC, which is external, claim that their behavior is controlled by external forces, persons or events (Ryan & Deci, 2000).
It should be known that, in internal locus, there is a relationship that exists with intrinsic motivation. Also, there is a relationship between extrinsic motivation and external locus. A distinction exists between extrinsic and intrinsic as they as part of what is known as the Self-Determination Theory. The latter developed during the wake of Conditioning and Behavioralism, whereby, punishment and reward are based on behavior management. The Self-Determination Theory mostly focuses on viewing the intrinsic effects from an internal perspective. There are three needs that bring about satisfaction as identified by the Self-Determination Theory. They include; Autonomy, which is being in control of one’s life, and Competence, which is making sure to be successful (Ryan & Deci, 2000). Lastly, is relatedness, which is ensuring that one always connects with others.
In my opinion, the Self –Determination Theory is one, which I can closely relate to in many ways. For example, it makes me aware that I am responsible for controlling my life. Other people cannot have their way in my life except for me. When engaging in any action or activity, I am always confident as well as responsible. The latter is because I can effectively motivate myself; also, I have an internal locus that is high. There are times when I hear from people that their lives are not fair, and are often forced into things they do not want. It means that they have an external locus that is high (Ryan & Deci, 2000). In turn, they are impacted by punishment and reward. By applying the Self-Determination Theory in my life, it makes me accomplish the goals that I seek to achieve. In order for one to become successful they need to have confidence about the awaiting future. Moreover, it helps others and me to choose actions, which will be positive.
There are times when I feel that school is becoming unbearable to the point whereby, I fell like quitting. Fortunately, my internal locus helps me to overcome this issue. I focus on the future and its rewards once I finish school and have a successful career. The internal locus is responsible for influencing my actions and in turn I choose what I believe is beneficial to me. In this case, is whether to finish my schooling or to quit. It is possible to persuade others to change their action, in order to achieve a positive outcome. This means that people should always strive to achieve an internal locus, which is high, as it is extremely rewarding. In conclusion, the Self-Determination Theory is one, which is in accordance with my view point.
Reference
Ryan, R. & Deci, E. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55, 68–78.
