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The Energy behind Human Flourishing : Theory and Research on Subjective Vitality
Frederick, Christina Ryan, Richard Michael
Frederick, Christina
Ryan, Richard Michael
Abstract
This chapter reviews the history of theory and research on subjective vitality within self-determination theory (SDT). Research on subjective vitality, defined as the phenomenal experience of aliveness and of having energy available to the self, has demonstrated the centrality of this experience of energy to wellness and flourishing. Research has shown that subjective vitality varies not only with physical conditions but also with different types and conditions of motivation. Generally, more autonomous motives are associated with enhanced vitality, whereas controlled motives diminish subjective energy. Findings also show that satisfaction of basic psychological needs enhances subjective vitality, whereas need frustrations deplete one’s sense of energy and aliveness. Experimental work on “ego depletion,” in which self-controlling motives are induced, leading to lowered energy, is consistent with this SDT-based theorizing. Subjective vitality has been studied in many domains, beginning with exercise and physical activity and extending to areas such as health and wellness, sleep, energy in the workplace, and the importance of nature to the experience of vitality. Across contexts and characters, subjective vitality remains one of the most phenomenally accessible and predictive indicators of wellness available.
Keywords
self-determination theory, vitality, motivation, ego depletion, autonomy
Date
2023
Type
Book chapter
Journal
Book
The Oxford Handbook of Work Engagement, Motivation, and Self-Determination Theory
Volume
Issue
Page Range
215
Article Number
ACU Department
Institute for Positive Psychology and Education
Faculty of Education and Arts
Faculty of Education and Arts
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Open
Notes
© Oxford University Press 2023
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior permission in writing of Oxford University Press, or as expressly permitted by law, by license, or under terms agreed with the appropriate reproduction rights organization.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, without the prior permission in writing of Oxford University Press, or as expressly permitted by law, by license, or under terms agreed with the appropriate reproduction rights organization.