articleJournal of Personality and Social PsychologyJan 1, 2007Closed access

The role of need fulfillment in relationship functioning and well-being: A self-determination theory perspective.

HPHeather PatrickCRC. Raymond KneeACAmy CanevelloCLCynthia Lonsbary

University of Rochester · University of Houston · +2 more institutions

PubMed
Indexed incrossrefpubmed

Abstract

Self-determination theory posits 3 basic psychological needs: autonomy (feeling uncoerced in one's actions), competence (feeling capable), and relatedness (feeling connected to others). Optimal well-being results when these needs are satisfied, though this research has traditionally focused on individual well-being outcomes (e.g., E. L. Deci & R. M. Ryan, 2000). Three studies examined the role of need fulfillment in relationship functioning and well-being. Study 1 found that fulfillment of each need individually predicted both individual and relationship well-being, with relatedness being the strongest unique predictor of relationship outcomes. Study 2 found that both partners' need fulfillment uniquely…

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726
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4

Topics & keywords

Topics
Keywords
  • Psychology
  • Deci-
  • Self-determination theory
  • Feeling
  • Social psychology
  • Perspective (graphical)
  • Competence (human resources)
  • Autonomy
UN Sustainable Development Goals
  • Reduced inequalities
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