BSc of Informatics

Project description: We built on the framework of Self Determination Theory (SDT), which theorizes that there are two types of motivation; intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) motivation, which of both can be strong motivators to get things done. However, intrinsic motivation has shown to give longer lasting habits, since it comes from the person themselves and is described as something being inherently fun and/or exciting. Within the SDT, intrinsic motivation has shown to be positively influenced by autonomy, competence and relatedness. Extrinsic motivation on the other hand, is derived from external factors such as expectations or circumstances that forces you, or makes you feel like you “should” do something. Extrinsic motivation isn’t inherently a bad thing, but it generally doesn’t keep habits up for as long as intrinsic motivation does. In a physical therapy context, there is usually a natural lack of intrinsic motivation, since the physical rehabilitation is generally not perceived as being neither fun or exciting. Instead, the driving force is usually fear of not getting better (or potentially even worse), as well as the physiotherapist’s expectation on the patient.

The study resulted in nine design recommendations that informed how an e-health support can be designed to promote intrinsic motivation by supporting the three basic psychological needs that has been connected to intrinsic motivation: autonomy, competence and relatedness.