Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science / Revue canadienne des sciences du comportement, Vol 57(2), Apr 2025, 98-107; doi:10.1037/cbs0000397
Research in self-determination theory has focused on intrinsic and extrinsic aspirations and their unique antecedents and consequences. Most studies, however, have focused on mental health and less on physical, emotional, and social health. Studies on life aspirations and health have also been limited in demographic representation, scope, and measurement. The present study addresses these issues by examining, among a diverse sample of Canadian medical patients, how the relative centrality of intrinsic versus extrinsic aspirations relates to one’s overall health status. A total of 261 (64%) participants completed an online survey, containing demographic questions and two questionnaires—the Aspirations Index and Short-Form Health Survey. Factor analysis was first performed to confirm hypotheses about aspiration factor loadings. Pearson coefficients were then used to assess how the aspiration, demographic, and health items intercorrelated. Controlling for significant demographic factors, hierarchical regression analyses were then conducted to determine how the relative centrality of intrinsic versus extrinsic aspirations related to health status. The intrinsic and extrinsic aspirations loaded according to hypotheses. Regression analyses showed that placing more importance on, and particularly attaining, intrinsic aspirations related positively to physical, emotional, mental, and social health. Conversely, placing more importance on, and particularly attaining, extrinsic aspirations related negatively to these health outcomes. Findings add to the research base and raise new and important questions about how different life aspirations relate to human health and functioning. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)