Introduction to the self-determination construct

Abstract

Self-determination is a construct with a rich history in philosophy, social welfare, psychology, and education. This chapter overviews the origins of the self-determination construct, beginning with its application in philosophy, it's linkages to discussions of free will and volitional action, and continuing through to its implementation in motivation and personality psychology. The chapter introduces and overviews the origins of Self-Determination Theory and briefly introduces Causal Agency Theory.