Self Determination Theory and Expressive Arts Therapy: A Path to Needs Satisfaction and Mindful Autonomous Motivation

Author

Sara Truitt, Lesley UniversityFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-1-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

E Kellogg, PhD

Abstract

This literature explores supporting mindful autonomous motivation by meeting basic psychological needs using expressive arts therapies. Self-determination theory was created from the extensive research of two psychologists, Edward Deci and Richard Ryan. The theory proposes that an increase in well-being and personal growth can be achieved by meeting the psychological needs for competence, relatedness, and autonomy (Reeve & Lee, 2019, p. 102). This paper investigates how various theories in expressive art therapy can be used to support psychological need satisfaction. The examination includes the therapeutic relationship, the expressive therapies approach and examples of populations impacted by frustrated need satisfaction. The populations discussed in this literature review include ex-cult members, nonbinary youth, hospitalized children, and incarcerated women.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Truitt, Sara, "Self Determination Theory and Expressive Arts Therapy: A Path to Needs Satisfaction and Mindful Autonomous Motivation" (2023). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 716.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/716