An exploration of existential needs and self-determination theory within an educational context

Abstract

In this concept paper ideas of the psychology of motivation in the twenty first century are explored as an introductory study on motivation theory. Drawing from the work of Leontiev (2012 a, b) and Längle (1999, 2012), as well as Deci and Ryan (1985, 2000), an overview of existentialist motivation is presented. Längle (1999) proposes that the four fundamental existential motivations centre on having a place in the world, a valued existence, a shared existence, and a meaningful existence. This section is followed by an analysis of the more traditional and mainstream approach of Self-Determination Theory, which explores issues of self-regulation and self-determination from existential underpinnings. Further exploration of Self- Determination Theory and the needs of competence, autonomy and relatedness, as well as the conceptualisation of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation as a continuum, follows. Concluding comments are made as to the relevance of the overview for an educational context.