A theoretical analysis of the implications of self-determination theory in explaining the effectiveness of feedback-seeking behaviors and the seeker's reaction to feedback: A research agenda

Abstract

This paper proposes that Self-Determination Theory (SDT) has considerable potential for filling some crucial feedback-seeking behavior (FSB) literature gaps. Some key issues are theoretically addressed. First, the influence mechanism of FSB on performance improvement may be explained by the role of motivational factors introduced by this theory in forming positive feedback reactions and the quality of feedback received by the feedback seeker. Second, SDT can be used to explain the feedback seekers' subjective well-being during the FSB process, which is almost overlooked in the FSB literature despite its importance. Third, this paper also relates motivational self-regulation mechanisms to FSB dimensions (e.g., method, sign, type) beyond the popular dimension of FSB frequency analyzed in the literature. The paper also suggests that the quality of FSB, based on these dimensions, is related to the quality of the feedback-seeker's motivation. This paper presents avenues for future empirical studies on different aspects of FSB based on SDT.