This volume examines the developmental aspects of the general
psychological construct of self-determination. The term refers to self-
(vs. other-) caused action-to people acting volitionally-as based on
their own will. Research conducted in the fields of psychology and
education shows the importance of self-determination to adolescent
development and positive adult outcomes. The first part of this volume
presents an overview of theories and historical antecedents of the
construct. It looks at the role of self-determination in major theories
of human agentic behavior and of adolescent development and
individuation. The second part of the volume examines the developmental
origins and the trajectory of self-determination in childhood,
adolescence, and adulthood, and looks as aging aspects. The next part
presents studies on the evolutionary aspects, individual differences and
healthy psychological development. The last part of the book covers the
development of causal and agentic capability.