SDT Motivation Profile
Take the free Self-Determination Theory motivation assessment online. Discover your autonomy, competence, and relatedness needs and how well your work satisfies them. 36 questions, instant results.
No signup needed — your result appears instantly.
Self-Determination Theory · Original items, not an administered SDT scale.
- How well your three core psychological needs are currently satisfied
- Whether your work feels genuinely self-directed or externally pressured
- Your sense of competence and mastery in your role
- How connected and valued you feel in your work environment
SDT is a macro-theory of human motivation developed by Deci and Ryan since the 1970s. It distinguishes between intrinsic motivation (driven by genuine interest and values) and extrinsic motivation (driven by rewards or pressure), and identifies the three basic psychological needs, autonomy, competence, relatedness, that support intrinsic motivation.
SDT research shows motivation erodes when core needs go unmet. A micromanaging environment thwarts autonomy. Repetitive tasks without growth thwart competence. Isolation or poor team dynamics thwart relatedness. Identifying which need is blocked is the first step to restoring motivation.
Unlike Maslow's hierarchy or simple reward-punishment models, SDT is supported by decades of experimental research across cultures. It distinguishes between types of motivation (not just amounts), explaining why some rewards improve performance while others undermine it.
Taking it is free and your scores on all three needs appear on screen, with no signup required. The full need-satisfaction profile and the personalized recommendations are part of Premium.
