Autonomy and Its Effect on Mental Health

Autonomy is one of the most important variable that influences adolescent’s mental health. Though there have been many studies conducted on autonomy, there is no commonly accepted definition for it. Two approaches concerning autonomy have a dominant effect on studies. These are explanations of cultural psychology and psychoanalytic approach (autonomy as independent) and explanation of Self Determination Theory (autonomy as self endorsed functioning) about autonomy. This study aims to review main approaches related to autonomy and relations between autonomy and mental health.