AĀ detailed Self-Determination Theory (SDT) Autonomy ScaleĀ based on Deci & Ryan’s (2000) framework. This test measures how much autonomy you experience in your daily life, focusing onĀ three core aspects:Ā perceived choice, volition, and internal locus of control.
Instructions: Rate each statement from 1 to 5 based on how often it applies to you.
- 1Ā = Strongly Disagree
- 2Ā = Disagree
- 3Ā = Neutral
- 4Ā = Agree
- 5Ā = Strongly Agree
š¹ Section 1: Perceived Choice & Freedom
- I feel in control of the decisions I make in my daily life.
- I have the freedom to choose activities and tasks that align with my interests.
- When making decisions, I feel I am acting out of personal preference rather than external pressure.
- I rarely feel forced to do things I donāt want to do.
- I feel free to express my opinions without fear of judgment or consequences.
š¹ Section 2: Volition & Willingness
- I usually do things because I genuinely want to, rather than because I feel obligated.
- Even when I follow rules or expectations, I feel like I have chosen to do so.
- I feel a sense of ownership over my actions and decisions.
- I rarely feel pressured to conform to societal or family expectations.
- When I take on new commitments, I do so because they feel meaningful to me.
š¹ Section 3: Internal Locus of Control
- I believe that my choices shape my future more than external circumstances.
- I take responsibility for my successes and failures rather than blaming external factors.
- I believe I can change my life circumstances through my own decisions and actions.
- I feel capable of overcoming challenges because I trust my own decision-making.
- I rarely feel like life is just happening to meāI am an active participant in shaping my experiences.
š¹ Section 4: Barriers to Autonomy
- I often feel obligated to meet the expectations of others, even if they donāt align with my values.
- I sometimes hesitate to pursue my true desires because of fear of judgment or disapproval.
- I struggle to say no, even when I donāt want to do something.
- I often feel like my choices are influenced by factors outside of my control.
- I sometimes feel disconnected from my true desires and what I genuinely want.
š Scoring & Interpretation
- Add up your total score.
- Minimum:Ā 20 pointsĀ (low autonomy)
- Maximum:Ā 100 pointsĀ (high autonomy)
- Interpret Your Score:
- 80 ā 100:Ā š„Ā Highly AutonomousĀ ā You strongly feel in control of your choices and live life on your own terms.
- 60 ā 79:Ā šæĀ Moderately AutonomousĀ ā You generally make self-directed choices but sometimes feel external pressure.
- 40 ā 59:Ā āļøĀ Somewhat ControlledĀ ā You often feel influenced by external expectations and may struggle to assert your own choices.
- 20 ā 39:Ā šĀ Externally DrivenĀ ā Your decisions feel controlled by outside forces, and you may struggle to assert your independence.