ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the concepts of autonomy and choice and their significance for outcomes in adolescence. The conceptual and operational definitions of autonomy and choice constructs are described from various psychological perspectives, with an emphasis on comparing and distinguishing between choice and autonomy. Following this conceptual outline of constructs, the benefits of autonomy and choice for adolescents’ functioning are discussed. The extant literature and recent theoretical and empirical work linking choice, autonomy, and adolescent motivation, engagement, and learning outcomes is discussed, noting areas of contention. Included in this discussion are (1) whether choice provision is particularly beneficial for adolescents relative to other age groups; (2) conditions that enhance, mitigate, or otherwise alter the benefits of choice; and (3) why discrepancies in the findings related to choice and autonomy have emerged. Implications for practice and recommendations for future research are discussed.
