The three basic needs outlined by self-determination theory are:

The three basic needs outlined by self-determination theory are:

• A. competence, autonomy, and relatedness
• B. relatedness, autonomy, and motivation
• C. trust, relatedness, and competence
• D. competence, trust, and autonomy

Answer: (A)

Self-determination theory identifies three basic psychological needs that support intrinsic motivation and well-being: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Autonomy is the sense of having control and choice in one’s actions; competence is feeling effective and capable in what you do; relatedness is feeling connected and cared for by others. When these needs are satisfied, people are more naturally motivated, engaged, and persistent. The correct option lists exactly these three needs. The other choices mix in factors that aren’t considered the three basic needs (for example, motivation or trust), which don’t capture the core framework of SDT.

Self-determination theory identifies three basic psychological needs that support intrinsic motivation and well-being: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Autonomy is the sense of having control and choice in one’s actions; competence is feeling effective and capable in what you do; relatedness is feeling connected and cared for by others. When these needs are satisfied, people are more naturally motivated, engaged, and persistent. The correct option lists exactly these three needs. The other choices mix in factors that aren’t considered the three basic needs (for example, motivation or trust), which don’t capture the core framework of SDT.