Synonyms
Definition
Autonomy is a complex construct that concerns the regulation of behavior by the self, or the authorship of one’s behavior, as opposed to behavior being controlled by forces perceived as outside the self. When individuals are autonomous, their behavior is self-organized and self-endorsed, and their actions are experienced as fully voluntary and authentic. The opposite of autonomy is feeling pressured, coerced, or compelled to act by forces or pressures perceived as external to the self.
Description
Across the history of philosophy and within social science disciplines, scholars frequently cite autonomy, or regulation by the self, as necessary to both optimal human functioning and wellness (e.g., Dworkin, 1988; Ryan & Deci, 2000; Sen, 1999). When an individual feels autonomous, he or she experiences vitality, performs better, and has greater mental and physical well-being. On the other hand, feeling that one’s actions...
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Legate, N., Ryan, R.M. (2014). Individual Autonomy. In: Michalos, A.C. (eds) Encyclopedia of Quality of Life and Well-Being Research. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-0753-5_140
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