Deci and Ryan

Deci and Ryan are psychologists known for developing Self-Determination Theory, which explains how people are motivated. They found that individuals are most motivated when they experience three key needs: autonomy (feeling in control of their actions), competence (feeling effective and skilled), and relatedness (feeling connected to others). When these needs are satisfied, people tend to be more engaged, motivated, and satisfied in their activities. Conversely, when these needs are unmet, motivation can decrease, impacting well-being and performance. Their work helps explain importance of intrinsic motivation and how supportive environments foster personal growth.