ENVIRONMENT

In recent years, self-determination theory has also been applied in the context of pro-environmental behavior. The theory posits that meeting the basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and social connectedness is also essential to encouraging individuals to engage in pro-environmental behaviors.

Research has shown that individuals who are encouraged to act autonomously, making decisions and directing their own behavior, are more likely to engage in pro-environmental behavior. Environments that support competence, by providing clear and relevant information about pro-environmental behaviors, are also more likely to encourage individuals to adopt these behaviors.

Social relationship is also an important factor in the adoption of pro-environmental behaviors. Individuals who are supported in their social relationships, by having positive examples of pro-environmental behaviors in their surroundings, are more likely to adopt them themselves. Positive social pressures can encourage individuals to engage in pro-environmental behaviors, including showing them that their peers approve of these behaviors.

Finally, research has shown that individuals who are intrinsically motivated are more likely to adopt pro-environmental behaviors and maintain them over the long term. Environments that support the satisfaction of basic psychological needs can encourage the emergence of intrinsic motivation in individuals.

In sum, recent research has shown that self-determination theory can be successfully applied in the context of pro-environmental behaviors. Environments that support the satisfaction of basic psychological needs can encourage the adoption and maintenance of pro-environmental behaviors, promoting autonomy, competence, and social connectedness. Interventions based on self-determination theory can be used to encourage individuals to adopt pro-environmental behaviors and contribute to environmental protection.

There are many recent studies that have examined the application of self-determination theory in the context of pro-environmental behaviors. Some examples include:

• A study conducted by Pelletier and colleagues (2018) examined the effects of an environmental awareness program based on self-determination theory among adolescents. Results showed that the program increased participants' intrinsic motivation to engage in pro-environmental behaviors, as well as their engagement in those behaviors.
• Another study conducted by Lacroix and colleagues (2020) examined the effects of an environmental education program based on self-determination theory among university students. Results showed that the program increased basic psychological need satisfaction among participants, as well as their intrinsic motivation to engage in pro-environmental behaviors.
• A study conducted by Kasser and Sheldon (2020) examined the relationship between basic psychological need satisfaction and the adoption of pro-environmental behaviors in adults. The results showed that satisfaction of autonomy, competence, and social relationship needs were positively associated with the adoption of pro-environmental behaviors.

These studies show that self-determination theory can be an effective approach to encourage the adoption of pro-environmental behaviors. By supporting the satisfaction of basic psychological needs, environments can encourage intrinsic motivation and engagement of individuals in pro-environmental behaviors.