Which three elements make up Self-Determination Theory?

• A. Autonomy, Competence, Relatedness
• B. Autonomy, Confidence, Belonging
• C. Independence, Mastery, Social support
• D. Motivation, Ability, Connection

Answer: (A)

Self-Determination Theory centers on three fundamental needs that drive motivation: Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness. Autonomy is the sense that you’re choosing your actions and have some control over what you do, rather than feeling pressured or coerced. In practice, giving patients options for exercises or allowing them to set their own goals helps nurture this feeling of choice and ownership.

Competence is the feeling of being effective and capable when tackling tasks. This builds when instructions are clear, feedback is specific and constructive, and the tasks are challenging but achievable, so patients experience real progress and mastery.

Relatedness involves feeling connected and cared for by others. A therapeutic relationship that is respectful, empathetic, and collaborative satisfies this need, making patients feel supported within the care team and with peers.

When these needs are met, motivation tends to be more intrinsic, engagement increases, and adherence to therapy improves. The other options mix related ideas like confidence, belonging, independence, mastery, or social support, but the precise trio defined here is Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness.