Self-determination theory and strategies aimed at the basic psychological needs of psychiatric patients: A rapid review

Abstract

Self-determination theory (SDT) is a macro-theory that links the fulfilment of basic psychological needs (BPN) to enhanced well-being, functioning and intrinsic motivation in various different samples of people. Strategies associated with BPN fulfilment of autonomy, competence and relatedness have been explored in various areas, including areas such as healthcare, sport and schools. However, research exploring such strategies in psychiatric samples is underdeveloped. This study aimed to explore current research in order to create a collection of SDT-informed strategies suggested to fulfil the BPN of psychiatric patients. A rapid review was conducted and keywords were searched on electronic databases. After duplicates were removed, 169 records were identified, 85 abstracts were screened for eligibility, after which 35 full text studies were assessed. Finally, after quality appraisal and checking for relevance to the research question, 15 records were identified for analysis. Qualitative thematic analysis was conducted on both qualitative and quantitative studies. Four main themes that emerged were autonomy, competence and relatedness supportive strategies, as well as strategies focused on the effectiveness of interventions. The findings make it possible for mental healthcare institutions to identify the strategies that could potentially be applied to their specific contexts in creative ways. The proposed strategies, though, need to be tested and validated in specific contexts, both in practice and research. Action-based research is recommended, which can provide simultaneous testing of strategies, reporting on findings and adjusting strategies according to developing findings.