Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question refers to the Self-Determination Theory (SDT) developed by Edward Deci and Richard Ryan. It asks to identify the three innate and universal psychological needs proposed by this theory.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Self-Determination Theory posits that all humans have three fundamental psychological needs that are essential for psychological health, well-being, and intrinsic motivation. These needs are:
A. Autonomy: The need to feel in control of one's own behaviors and goals. It is the sense of being the causal agent of one's own life. This is a core need in SDT.
B. Competence: The need to feel effective in dealing with the environment. It involves seeking to control outcomes and experience mastery. This is a core need in SDT.
C. Relatedness: The need to have a sense of belonging and connectedness with others. It involves the desire to be cared for and to care for others. This is a core need in SDT.
D. Acceptance: While feeling accepted by others is an important part of well-being and is closely related to "relatedness," it is not one of the three foundational needs as formally defined in SDT. "Relatedness" is the broader and correct term used in the theory.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The three universal needs according to Self-Determination Theory are Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness (A, B, and C).