Extrinsic motivation

Definition

Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to perform a behavior or engage in an activity based on external rewards or outcomes, such as money, grades, praise, or other tangible benefits. This type of motivation contrasts with intrinsic motivation, where individuals engage in activities for personal satisfaction or enjoyment. Understanding extrinsic motivation is important because it plays a significant role in influencing behaviors in various contexts, from education to workplace environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Extrinsic motivation can be a powerful tool in educational settings as it can encourage students to complete assignments and participate actively.
2. While extrinsic rewards can effectively motivate behavior in the short term, over-reliance on them may diminish intrinsic motivation.
3. Different types of extrinsic rewards include tangible incentives like money and grades, as well as social recognition such as praise and awards.
4. Extrinsic motivation can vary significantly among individuals based on personal values and experiences, influencing how people respond to rewards.
5. In workplace environments, extrinsic motivation often comes from performance bonuses, promotions, and recognition programs that aim to enhance productivity.

Review Questions

• How does extrinsic motivation influence learning outcomes in educational settings?
  • Extrinsic motivation can significantly influence learning outcomes by providing students with clear incentives to engage with course material. When students are motivated by external rewards like grades or praise, they may put forth more effort and complete assignments more diligently. However, if overused, these external rewards could undermine intrinsic motivation, potentially leading to a lack of genuine interest in the subject matter.
• Discuss the potential drawbacks of relying heavily on extrinsic motivation for behavior change.
  • Relying heavily on extrinsic motivation can lead to several drawbacks, including a diminished sense of autonomy and intrinsic interest in activities. When individuals are constantly motivated by external rewards, they may become less likely to engage in tasks for their own sake and more focused on achieving the reward itself. This shift can result in lower long-term engagement and satisfaction when the rewards are removed or decreased.
• Evaluate the role of extrinsic versus intrinsic motivation in achieving personal and professional goals.
  • In achieving personal and professional goals, both extrinsic and intrinsic motivations play essential roles but serve different purposes. Extrinsic motivation can help initiate action and provide immediate rewards that encourage goal pursuit, especially when individuals are new to a task. Conversely, intrinsic motivation fosters deeper engagement and commitment over time. A balance between the two types of motivation is crucial for sustained success; while external rewards can jumpstart efforts, intrinsic satisfaction is often what keeps individuals dedicated in the long run.

Related terms

intrinsic motivation: Intrinsic motivation involves engaging in a task for its own sake, driven by personal interest, enjoyment, or a sense of accomplishment.

rewards: Rewards are positive outcomes or incentives given to individuals as a result of their actions, often used to encourage desired behaviors.

goal-setting: Goal-setting is the process of establishing specific, measurable objectives that individuals strive to achieve, often linked to motivating behaviors and performance.