Organismic Integration Theory
Updated 2026-08-08
INTRODUCTION
English translation pending.
CORE DEFINITION
A sub-theory of self-determination theory, formulated by Edward Deci and Richard Ryan. It describes how extrinsic motivation becomes progressively internalized along a continuum: external regulation, introjected regulation, identified regulation, and integrated regulation. Internalization is an active process that requires satisfaction of autonomy, competence, and relatedness; when those needs go unsupported, regulation stalls at the controlled end. Integrated regulation represents the most autonomous form of extrinsic motivation.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
- Assess internalization: name which regulation currently holds a behavior in place - Support the shift: supply rationale, choice, and competence feedback so regulation moves inward - Avoid shortcuts: replace pressure and guilt with value alignment to make change durable
Anchor fast decisions
Internalization proceeds by degrees as a person finds reasons to endorse the behavior. External contingencies supply no reason beyond the reward, so behavior stops when the reward does. Introjection supplies guilt, which is internally driven but still controlling. Identification supplies a value the person holds, and integration folds that value into the self-concept, which makes the behavior self-sustaining.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-determination_theoryverified
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