Motivational autonomy and Internalized Norms

A key component of Self-Determination Theory (Ryan and Deci 2000), motivational autonomy conceptualizes human behavior as driven by distinct types of motivation. Behavior that reflects individuals’ own values and interests is seen as autonomous and intrinsically motivated. Behavior taken to avoid punishment and blame or to gain reward or favor among other people is seen as extrinsically motivated. This survey tool includes vignettes measuring four different types of motivation, ranging from the most autonomous (intrinsic, integrated) to the least autonomous (introjected, external). Importantly, individuals can hold different types of motivation at the same time. We recommend the use of this tool in the design, monitoring, and evaluation of development programs aimed at improving women’s empowerment.

Link to: tool content and guidelines, CTO file, and statistical annex

Permitted use of the tool: all users are free to use the tool with citation: “MAGNET (2023). Motivational Autonomy and Internalized Norms. http://magnet.ifpri.info/motivational-autonomy-and-internalized-norms/”

Tool sample

The domains used will be:

• Use of income generated from agricultural and non-agricultural activities
• Attending school
• Pregnancy prevention
• Marriage
• Livelihood decisions

For each domain we will measure the respondent's identification with vignettes that capture different kinds of motivation.

1. Integrated motivation 

“[PERSON’S NAME] uses her income the way she feels is socially appropriate for an honorable woman.

2. Introjected motivation 

“[PERSON’S NAME]’s spouse, or another person or group in her community, do not tell her how to use her income, but [PERSON’S NAME] knows what they expect. She does what they expect her to do because she wants them to approve of her.”

Response code
Are you like this person?

• Yes
• No

If  Yes: Are you completely the same or somewhat the same?
If No: Are you completely different or somewhat different?

Measurement properties

• Geographies Tested: Ethiopia, Guatemala
• Populations included: Female, Male
• Age range: Adults

For details on these testing metrics, visit our scoring methodology page.