Motivation
Deci and Ryan’s Self Determination Theory (2002) reveals that:
In order for humans to allow for optimal function and growth, three psychological needs motivate ‘the self’ to initiate behavior and specify nutriments that are essential for psychological health and well-being of an individual. These needs are said to be universal, innate and psychological, and include :
The Need for Competence
– Refers to being effective in dealing with the environment a person finds themselves in (White, 1959)
The Need for Relatedness
– Is the universal want to interact, be connected to, and experience caring for others – (Baumeister & Leary, 1995)
The Need for Autonomy
– Is the universal urge to be causal agents of our own life and act in harmony with our integrated self. However Deci and Vansteenkiste (2004) note this doesn’t mean to be independent of others. (Deci & Ryan, 2002).
From a sporting perspective, I have become increasingly committed to allowing for greater self-discovery with the people I work with.
In an age where increased numbers of support staff are potentially suffocating ‘the athlete’ in the space they both occupy when working together, I thought it pertinent to share this psychological theory.
With the football season underway, and a European Championships Qualifying match at Wembley tomorrow night, the focus on Fabio Capello’s ability to motivate the England team will be a feature of the match’s commentary. Interestingly, the above theory highlights the key components which drive human motivation, and probably conflict with the management style of many people operating in top sport today.
Maybe, the modern player needs to be left alone more, in order to work it out for themselves?
