Self-Determination Theory identifies which three basic psychological needs?

• A. Autonomy, competence, relatedness
• B. Autonomy, independence, motivation
• C. Belonging, achievement, control
• D. Control, effort, support

Answer: (A)

Self-Determination Theory centers on three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Autonomy is the sense that you act with volition and feel free to choose your actions. Competence is feeling effective and capable of mastering tasks. Relatedness is the experience of connection with others—feeling cared for and part of a community. When these needs are satisfied, motivation becomes more self‑endorsed and sustained, and well‑being improves. The option that lists these three needs is the best fit because it captures the exact trio proposed by SDT. The other choices mix terms that don’t align with the SDT triad in the same way: independence, motivation, belonging, achievement, control, and support don’t constitute the same three fundamental needs.