Mindfulness and Healthy Self-Regulation: A Self-Determination Theory View

In this chapter, we explore self-regulation from a self-determination theory (SDT) perspective, and how mindfulness facilitates relatively autonomous forms of self-regulation. SDT takes a process view, proposing that mindfulness potentiates human wellness and thriving via self-regulations that are characterized by autonomy. The account provided by SDT emphasizes the role of mindfulness in supporting individuals to make sense of their experience, connect with inherent interests and deeper preferences, and so, to act with autonomy. In this chapter, we explore SDT’s continuum of self-regulation that extends from highly autonomous motivation to a lack of motivation and consider how mindfulness influences these different self-regulatory forms, drawing on a diverse evidence base. We conclude by considering, as a part of SDT’s process view of mindfulness, the downstream consequences of mindfulness and autonomous self-regulation for human wellness, thriving, and interpersonal engagement.