Research
Adherence
Autonomously motivated (self-determined) behavioral change is more sustainable and leads to better health outcomes than externally motivated change.
To make lasting health changes, you must connect them to your own values, not just your doctor's orders. Ask yourself why this change matters to you personally. If the reason is external (e.g., 'to please my doctor'), it is less likely to stick. Focus on intrinsic reasons (e.g., 'to play with my kids').
GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
This is important because autonomously motivated behavioral change is more sustainable.
Why this rating
Based on a review of SDT literature and multiple RCTs cited (Refs 11, 12, 42, 58, 59).
Source
Complementary Tools to Empower and Sustain Behavior Change
Stephanie J. Sohl et al. · American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine · 2015
DOI 10.1177/1559827615571524
narrative_reviewCited 48×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
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