Relationship between basic psychological needs and academic satisfaction in students of the University of Antofagasta

Abstract

The academic satisfaction of the student community has gained relevance within educational institutions because it provides an assessment that allows knowing the student's experience, the perception they have about the services, tools and resources that are provided, as well as the quality of the teaching and learning process. In other words, it covers both the academic and administrative dimensions that reflect the personal psychological well-being of each student, being a key factor for their adaptation and permanence. On the other hand, the theory of Self-determination (TAD) proposed by Deci and Ryan in 1985, indicates that there are three main basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence and relationship) that intervene in the performance and motivational levels of people. This study seeks to establish the relationship between basic psychological needs and academic satisfaction of 382 university students, through the application of two instruments; the Basic Psychological Needs Scale and the Academic Satisfaction Scale. This study provides empirical evidence of the positive relationship that exists between basic psychological needs and academic satisfaction of the student population of the University of Antofagasta, that is, while the student population perceives and considers that their needs for autonomy, competence and relationship are Satisfied satisfaction also increases academic satisfaction, which influences both the assessment of the different factors involved in university studies and academic performance.