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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

šŸ”¹ Section 1: Perceived Choice & Freedom

  1. I feel in control of the decisions I make in my daily life.
  2. I have the freedom to choose activities and tasks that align with my interests.
  3. When making decisions, I feel I am acting out of personal preference rather than external pressure.
  4. I rarely feel forced to do things I don’t want to do.
  5. I feel free to express my opinions without fear of judgment or consequences.

šŸ”¹ Section 2: Volition & Willingness

  1. I usually do things because I genuinely want to, rather than because I feel obligated.
  2. Even when I follow rules or expectations, I feel like I have chosen to do so.
  3. I feel a sense of ownership over my actions and decisions.
  4. I rarely feel pressured to conform to societal or family expectations.
  5. When I take on new commitments, I do so because they feel meaningful to me.

šŸ”¹ Section 3: Internal Locus of Control

  1. I believe that my choices shape my future more than external circumstances.
  2. I take responsibility for my successes and failures rather than blaming external factors.
  3. I believe I can change my life circumstances through my own decisions and actions.
  4. I feel capable of overcoming challenges because I trust my own decision-making.
  5. I rarely feel like life is just happening to me—I am an active participant in shaping my experiences.

šŸ”¹ Section 4: Barriers to Autonomy

  1. I often feel obligated to meet the expectations of others, even if they don’t align with my values.
  2. I sometimes hesitate to pursue my true desires because of fear of judgment or disapproval.
  3. I struggle to say no, even when I don’t want to do something.
  4. I often feel like my choices are influenced by factors outside of my control.
  5. I sometimes feel disconnected from my true desires and what I genuinely want.

šŸ“ Scoring & Interpretation

  1. Add up your total score.
    • Minimum:Ā 20 pointsĀ (low autonomy)
    • Maximum:Ā 100 pointsĀ (high autonomy)
  2. Interpret Your Score:
    • 80 – 100:Ā šŸ”„Ā Highly Autonomous – You strongly feel in control of your choices and live life on your own terms.
    • 60 – 79: 🌿 Moderately Autonomous – You generally make self-directed choices but sometimes feel external pressure.
    • 40 – 59:Ā āš–ļøĀ Somewhat Controlled – You often feel influenced by external expectations and may struggle to assert your own choices.
    • 20 – 39:Ā šŸ”„Ā Externally Driven – Your decisions feel controlled by outside forces, and you may struggle to assert your independence.

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