According to Self-Determination Theory, what need is associated with feeling connected and involved with the social world?

According to Self-Determination Theory, relatedness is the need associated with feeling connected and involved with the social world. This need emphasizes the importance of interpersonal relationships and the feeling of belonging to a community. When individuals fulfill their need for relatedness, they experience a sense of connection with others, which can enhance their motivation and overall well-being.

Relatedness involves having meaningful interactions and forming bonds with others, which contributes to an individual's emotional health. In contexts such as exercise and physical activity, fostering connections with peers or engaging in group activities can significantly impact motivation and adherence to fitness programs. This reflects the fundamental role of social support in promoting positive behavioral changes and psychological outcomes.

In comparison, the other concepts mentioned — competence, autonomy, and self-esteem — highlight different aspects of motivation. Competence pertains to feelings of mastery and effectiveness in one’s activities. Autonomy refers to the sense of control and the ability to make choices freely. While self-esteem reflects a person’s overall sense of self-worth or value, it is not directly linked to social connectivity. Thus, relatedness is distinctly recognized within the framework of Self-Determination Theory as the aspect that supports our need for social engagement.