Extrinsic Motivation: Definition and Theory

Extrinsic motivation refers to being motivated by external rewards or pressures, rather than internal fulfillment. While it can be effective in the short-term, research shows that a sole focus on extrinsic motivators often undermines long-term motivation and wellbeing.

Defining Extrinsic Motivation

Extrinsic motivation drives people to take action based on external pressures and incentives, such as money, fame, grades, and praise. It contrasts with intrinsic motivation, which refers to doing something because it is inherently interesting or fulfilling.

For example, an intrinsically motivated painter creates art for the joy of the process itself. An extrinsically motivated painter may create for money, accolades, or to win competitions.

Theories on Extrinsic Motivation

Researchers have proposed various theories to explain extrinsic motivation:

Operant conditioning sees extrinsic motivators as reinforcements that increase behaviors.
Drive reduction theory focuses on how people take actions to reduce biological and psychological needs.
Goal-setting theory examines how conscious performance goals drive behaviors.
The self-determination theory explores how intrinsic and varied extrinsic motivators facilitate growth.

Criticisms of Over-Reliance on Extrinsic Motivation

Studies suggest that extrinsic rewards and pressures can undermine intrinsic motivation over time. For example, giving rewards for a behavior that was previously rewarding in itself can reduce inner drive and enjoyment.

Additionally, a sole focus on external motivators has been linked to poorer performance, wellbeing, and ethical behavior. However, moderate extrinsic motivators can complement healthy intrinsic motivations.

Integrating Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivations

The most sustainable and fulfilling motivational approaches integrate appropriate extrinsic motivators with a nurturing of intrinsic inspirations. This may involve:

Exploring one’s inner passions and sense of purpose
Setting self-concordant goals that align with identity
Reframing tasks in terms of meaning rather than pressure
Using positive encouragement rather than controlling rewards
Balancing process-oriented intrinsic joys with some outcome-focused extrinsic motivators

Fostering Motivation Through Compassion

Compassion for oneself and others is key for healthy, ethical motivation. Pressuring oneself or others can backfire, while offering gentle encouragement tends to work better. Psychology suggests reinforcing desired behaviors with positive feedback rather than punishment.

Conclusion

The most empowering motivational approaches tap into our intrinsic inspirations while moderately incorporating helpful extrinsic motivators. By leading with compassion, we can nurture motivation and bring out the best in ourselves and others.

FAQ

What are some examples of extrinsic motivation?

Common extrinsic motivators include money, grades, competition results, praise, fame, and fear of punishment. Essentially any external reward or driver of behavior.

Is extrinsic motivation good or bad?

Extrinsic motivators can help spur beneficial behaviors, but research suggests intrinsic inspiration leads to better engagement, performance, and wellbeing over time. The healthiest approaches leverage intrinsic drives while incorporating helpful extrinsic motivation.

How can we increase intrinsic motivation?

Ways to nurture intrinsic motivation include finding overlapping passions/purposes, adding more autonomy to tasks, encouraging mastery, promoting belonging and connection, reframing objectives around meaning, and positively reinforcing behaviors rather than pressuring.

What’s the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation refers to being inspired by inherent satisfactions like interest, purpose, and enjoyment. Extrinsic motivation relies on external pressures and incentives like rewards, fame, and fear of punishment to drive behaviors.

How can we motivate students intrinsically?

Strategies include allowing more autonomy over learning, enabling creativity, promoting social belonging between peers and mentors, consistently offering positive feedback for effort/improvement, connecting material to student interests and life contexts, allowing choices in assignments, and prioritizing mastery over test scores.