Goal Contents Theory

The Theory

Basic SDT research topics

Hontoy, L-M., Joussemet, M., Robichaud, J-M., Mageau, G. A. (2026) The impact of an ACT intervention on intrinsic and extrinsic values and life fulfillment: An exploratory randomized controlled trial with university students. Motivation and Emotion: Special Issue, 50(1) ,211–225

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Neufeld, A., Bradshaw, E. L. (2025) Linking life aspirations to functional medical conditions: A Goal Contents Theory perspective. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 22 ,1582

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Bradshaw, E. L. (2023) In R. M. Ryan (Ed.), Causes, costs, and caveats: Reflections, and future directions for goal contents theory. Oxford University Press The Oxford handbook of self-determination theory, ,139-159

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Ryan, R. M., Deci, E. L. (2019) In A. J. Elliot (Ed.), Brick by brick: The origins, development, and future of self-determination theory. , 6 (pp. 111-156) Cambridge, MA.: Elsevier Inc.. doi: 10.1016/bs.adms.2019.01.001

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Ryan, R. M., Deci, E. L. (2017) Goal contents theory: Aspirations, life goals, and their varied consequences. Guilford Press Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness, ,272-292

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Niemiec, C. P., Ryan, R. M., Deci, E. L. (2009) The path taken: Consequences of attaining intrinsic and extrinsic aspirations in post-college life. Journal of Research in Personality, 43 ,291-306

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Kasser, T., Ryan, R. M. (1996) Further examining the American dream: Differential correlates of intrinsic and extrinsic goals. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 22(3) ,280-287

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