Evaluating the Dimensionality of Self-Determination Theory's Relative Autonomy Continuum

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Motivation Science

Background:

• Self-determination theory's relative autonomy continuum (RAC) validity is debated.
• Existing measures of relative autonomy index (RAI) require psychometric evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a theoretical and psychometric evaluation of the RAC.
• To develop and validate a Comprehensive Relative Autonomy Index (C-RAI).

Main Methods:

• Paired paraphrase content analysis to derive the C-RAI (6 subscales, 24 items).
• Administered C-RAI to U.S. and Russian samples assessing motivation for class, major, and responsibility.
• Multidimensional scaling, confirmatory factor analysis, and simplex/circumplex modeling.

Main Results:

• Psychometric analyses reaffirmed the validity of the RAC across diverse samples and contexts.
• Validation analyses demonstrated that an aggregate unweighted RAI score is the most unbiased and efficient indicator of motivation quality.
• The C-RAI effectively predicts subjective well-being and trait autonomy.

Conclusions:

• The relative autonomy continuum (RAC) is a psychometrically valid construct within self-determination theory.
• The Comprehensive Relative Autonomy Index (C-RAI) is a reliable and valid measure of motivation quality.
• An aggregate unweighted score from the C-RAI offers the optimal assessment of motivation within a behavioral domain.