Cause of Calvin's Pattern

↓ However, when Calvin learns out of personal interest  and choice (autonomy), he experiences intrinsic motivation. ↓

↓ When looking at Calvin's classroom behavior, it is clear that he doesn't understand why classroom tasks should matter to him. He is not intrinsically motivated by the tasks at hand because they do not pertain to his personal interests, nor give him any choice. ↓

Cause #2 - Lack of Relatedness & Belonging 

↓ When examining Calvin's social life and school environment, it is clear that he lacks a sense of relatedness. Within Self Determination Theory, relatedness is defined as a need to connect with others and experience a sense of belonging. These are things that Calvin does not experience. ↓ 

↓ Furthermore, Calvin's feelings of unbelonging may be a result of how he is treated, particularly as a result of his intelligence. In the comics, Calvin is often mistreated in response to his expansive knowledge of certain topics, (by both his classmates and Mrs. Wormwood). ↓ 

Cause #3 - Lack of a Sense of Competence 

↓ It is overwhelmingly clear that Calvin is a very intelligent student. In fact, he is likely ahead of his peers, and more than capable of succeeding in Mrs. Wormwood's class. However, this means that Calvin is not being optimally challenged, therefore undermining his intrinsic motivation. ↓ 

⭐Without a sense of autonomy, relatedness, or competence (optimal challenges), Calvin is left with little to no intrinsic motivation in the school environment. These seem to be the root causes of his behavior. ⭐