Removing the Ego: Need Fulfillment, Self-Image Goals, and Self-Presentation

Self-determination theory suggests that fulfillment of basic psychological needs creates a sense of self-worth that is not contingent upon maintaining a particular self-image. Lower ego-involvement is theorized, in turn, to lead to more authentic interactions with others. The present research tests this assertion across two types of close relationships. In Study 1, participants reported how much a close friendship fulfills their basic psychological needs, their levels of self-image goals, and the extent to which they engage in self-presentation with their friend. In Study 2, participants answered the same questions about a romantic partner. Results suggest that need fulfillment is associated with less desire to maintain a specific self-image, and that this predicts lower levels of self-presentation.