The Transdiagnostic Role of the Basic Psychological Needs in Psychopathology

Abstract

Self-Determination Theory (SDT) states that the satisfaction of individuals’ basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness is crucial for well-being and thriving, whereas the frustration of these needs is assumed to engender ill-being and even psychopathology. This article presents an overview of the work done on the relation between the basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness and psychopathology. Current empirical evidence suggests that especially need frustration plays a crucial role in different types of psychopathology, thereby emphasizing the transdiagnostic role of the needs. This chapter also discusses different ways in which especially need frustration can relate to psychopathology and how this fits within the broader transdiagnostic literature. Finally, important avenues for future research are identified.