Self-Determination Theory and International Development

Abstract

SDT has much to offer international development, especially as a counterpoint to the extrinsic incentive bias and hedonic stance that are prevalent in the field. Although the number of studies is still limited, existing studies in the context of international development and poverty generally support the basic propositions of SDT, especially in regard to the satisfaction of basic psychological needs and intervention outcomes. Theoretically, SDT-based interventions should also promote eudaimonia, although empirical investigation is warranted. Research in international development could, in turn, bring about new perspectives to SDT, for example, that basic psychological need satisfaction seems to moderate the undermining effect. As international development is a field that is new to not just SDT but psychology in general, there will be many challenges in conducting research, such as the lack of valid psychometric measures and ethical guidelines.