Self-Determination Theory and Well-Being in the Health Care Profession

In the current study, we predicted two forms of well-being using basic needs theory (BNT). We examined domain-specific (i.e., exercise) and global basic needs satisfaction (e.g., competence). One-hundred twenty-one pharmacists and nurses from eight hospitals in a large Midwest inner city participated. We predicted 24% and 44% of the variance in mindfulness and vitality, respectively, with basic needs in exercise and life in general making significant contributions. Our findings supported the importance of competence satisfaction as the most critical basic need compared to autonomy and relatedness. Regular physical activity alleviates negative psychological states but can also potentially enhance positive mood states such as mindfulness and vitality if the exercise setting promotes a need satisfaction for competence.