Motivation in health behaviour: role of autonomous and controlled motivation

Abstract

Introduction: Self-Determination Theory (SDT) emphasizes effect of motivation quality (autonomous and controlled motivation) in influencing behaviour. SDT explains the involvement of motivation in many areas, particularly health behaviour. Purpose: This paper reviews the application of both autonomous and controlled motivation in predicting health behaviour in the literature. Methodology: Published journals or articles containing quantitative studies that applied either autonomous and controlled motivation or both as independent variables that predicted health behaviour were included in this review. Articles from the past ten years (2009 to 2018) were reviewed. Health behaviours were further categorised into illness treatment and recovery, reduced health risks, and general health. Findings: Review results indicated that autonomous motivation was consistently related to various health behaviours for short-and long-term. Controlled motivation was either insignificantly or negatively related to health behaviours. Implication: This paper adds to our understanding of the influences of motivation on health from the perspective of SDT. This paper also contributes to the healthcare literature by providing insights into the extent to which both types of motivation influence health behaviour.