The Application of Self-Determination Theory to Eating Disorders

Abstract

In this article, the role of self-determination theory (SDT) is applied to eating disorders. SDT posits that individuals revolve around three specific innate psychological needs: competence, autonomy, and relatedness. For an individual to function at an optimal level of growth and integration to establish social development and personal well-being, all three needs must be met. The conclusion of this analysis is that general self-determination may create a buffer for women against the sociocultural pressures to maintain a thin “ideal body.” The level of self-determination and the type of motivation play an intricate role in how an individual copes with body dissatisfaction. We also include a section on the implications of this analysis for social work and mental health practitioners. As such, we explain training or intervention techniques that practitioners could use when treating clients with eating disorders.

Keywords:

• anorexia
• bulimia
• eating disorders
• motivation
• self-determination theory
• social work
• creativity in counseling