Read the study:
The study is published in the scientific journal Frontiers in Psychology:
What is the study about?
Drawing on 42 life story interviews, this study explores how processes of psychological need restoration unfold following experiences of need frustration versus need unfulfilment, with particular attention to differences between frustration caused by external contingencies and internal factors, within a self-determination theory perspective.
Main conclusions:
- Psychological need restoration unfolds through four interconnected phases: discrepancy recognition, negative emotions, action planning, and action.
- Need frustration due to external constraints tends to trigger withdrawal and avoidance strategies, whereas unfulfilled needs and internally driven frustration prompt proactive engagement.
- Distinguishing between need frustration and need unfulfilment provides a more nuanced understanding of motivational dynamics and need restoration processes.
Published: 2024
Authors:
Birgitte Westerskov Dalgas, Nikos Ntoumanis, Karsten Elmose-Østerlund and Thomas Bredahl.
Contact:
Birgitte Westerskov Dalgas, bwpedersen@health.sdu.dk
Support/Funding:
Nordea-fonden.