The bright, dark, and dim light colors of motivation: Advances in conceptualization and measurement from a self-determination theory perspective

Motivational theories have explored both the bright and dark sides of personal and contextual factors that support or undermine, respectively, human functioning and potential. Here, I review research that has used self-determination theory as a guiding conceptual framework to study the bright and dark “colors” of motivation. I primarily focus on interpersonal styles of communication used by individuals in positions of authority and/or expertise. I explain how such communication styles can support or thwart the recipients' basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness. I also discuss the experiential states and consequences of feeling that one's own psychological needs are satisfied vs frustrated. I further briefly touch upon the distinction between autonomous and controlled forms of motivation, as well as between intrinsic and extrinsic goal content. I review conceptual, methodological, and analytical issues, and provide suggestions for future research. Extending past research, I present tripartite conceptualizations and measurements of interpersonal styles and psychological needs which consider “dim light” colors of motivation, namely, need indifferent interpersonal styles and experiential states of personal need unfulfillment. I discuss how these constructs could enrich our understanding of the “middle ground” of motivation and have potential relevance for intervention work that aims to address “missed opportunities” for optimal motivational functioning at the contextual and personal levels.