This study examined fourth grade students’ perceptions of their relationships with the authority figures within their microsystems in order to better understand the role that these relationships play in child development and motivation to engage in academic learning. This study used Self Determination Theory as a lense to evaluate the extent to which these students felt their needs were satisfied by different relationships and the impact on their development. Information for this study was gathered through focus group interviews conducted with fourth grade students at a variety of Colorado elementary schools. The results of this study indicate that student perception of need fulfillment through relationships with authority figures impacts moral development, development of self concept and motivation to engage in learning.