The development of self-determination during adolescence

Abstract

The intent of this chapter is to provide an examination of the foundational skills, knowledge, and beliefs leading to the development of causal and agentic capabilities and action control beliefs during the adolescent years. The chapter overviews developmental milestones in knowledge, skills, and beliefs that emerge during adolescence and lead to enhanced self-determination, including choice making, self-initiation and planning, problem solving, decision making, goal setting and attainment, and self-regulation. The chapter concludes with a brief overview of issues in adolescent development as it pertains to motivational aspects of self-determination.