Toward a Motivational Model of Couple Happiness.

The article cites a study which investigates the validity of a motivational model of couple happiness based on self-determination theory. This theory presents a more extensive and refined theoretical base than previous intrinsic-extrinsic motivation conceptualizations. Then, the study tests the postulated simplex structure and the generalizability of the 6 forms of motivation proposed by this theory. Intrinsic and extrinsic motivations have traditionally been viewed as antipodes, with the former related to positive consequences and the latter related to more negative consequences. However, researchers have recently refined this dichotomous view of motivation by distinguishing different types of extrinsic motivation that would correspond to distinct levels of experienced self-determination/autonomy, and also by proposing the concept of a motivation. Their proposed extension to the intrinsic-extrinsic conceptualization is embedded in self-determination theory. This theory makes specific propositions regarding the nature of different motivational styles.