Ken is feeling increasingly depressed during his first year of law school. The __________________ would likely explain his depression by suggesting that he is no longer intrinsically motivated to pursue his goal of being a lawyer; all his motivations are now extrinsic.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The self-determination theory of optimal motivation posits that intrinsic motivation (doing something because it is inherently interesting or enjoyable) is essential for psychological health and well-being. If Ken is feeling depressed because his motivations have shifted from intrinsic to extrinsic (doing something because it leads to a separable outcome), this theory would best explain his situation by highlighting the importance of intrinsic motivation for maintaining psychological health and motivation.

Ken Is Feeling Increasingly Depressed During His First Year of Law