n. refers to the state of independence and self- determination in an individual, a group, or a society. According to some theories, an inordinate focus on self-determination and achievement represents a risk factor for the development of major depressive disorder and obsessive compulsive personality disorder. See also functional autonomy. Compare with heteronomy.
AUTONOMY: "The person acting with autonomy refused to ask for help with a task - instead choosing to complete it alone."
Cite this page: N., Pam M.S., "AUTONOMY," in PsychologyDictionary.org, April 7, 2013, https://psychologydictionary.org/autonomy/ (accessed April 16, 2021).
