We often do things for reasons other than pure enjoyment, i.e., we are motivated by external factors. But not all types of extrinsic motivation are created equal. Find out what extrinsic motivation is, why it’s different from its intrinsic counterpart, and how to best use it.
What is Extrinsic Motivation
Extrinsic motivation refers to doing something not for its inherent enjoyment, but for a separable outcome, such as receiving rewards or avoiding punishment. Very often, we do things not because we enjoy them, but because they are necessary or we want to obtain something else. When this happens, we are extrinsically motivated to do so.
What Is Motivation
Motivation is the underlying reasons, drives, and desires that give rise to human behavior. It stimulates us to take action to reach our goals.
People take action for different reasons. Psychologists have found two different types of motivation: intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation.
Examples of Extrinsic Motivation
There are many examples of extrinsic motivation around us.
- A student studies to please the parents.
- A child does chores to get an allowance.
- Workers put in overtime to earn a bonus.
These extrinsic motivation examples show that extrinsic motivators are not the activity’s innate enjoyment or satisfaction.
Extrinsic Motivation Can Involve Internal or External Rewards
Intrinsic motivation is driven by intrinsic rewards (intrinsic motivators).
Do extrinsic rewards cause extrinsic motivation?
Yes, but there’s more to it.
The discussion on motivation can sometimes be confusing. Sometimesextrinsic motivation andexternal motivation are used interchangeably in the media and even in some academic publications.
Butexternal and extrinsic are not synonymousin psychology. Neither are internal and intrinsic 1.
Internal rewards come from within oneself, while external rewards originate from the outside.
For example, if a child does homework to avoid punishment, the source of motivation is external. And because he is doing it for a separable consequence, he is motivated extrinsically. This child is, therefore, motivatedexternally and extrinsicallyto do homework.
On the other hand, if a child studies because he wants to get high grades so that he can later go to college, then his drive is internally produced. But since he doesn’t do the school assignment for its own sake, he is extrinsically motivated. In this case, the child isinternallyand extrinsically motivated.
Therefore, while intrinsic motivation is driven by internal rewards,extrinsic motivation can be generated by internal or external rewards.
To avoid confusion, we can refer to internal rewards as psychological rewards and external rewards as tangible rewards such as gold stars.
Tangible rewards, such as prizes, always result in extrinsic motivation.
But psychological rewards can result in intrinsic or extrinsic motivation. Some psychological rewards, such as a sense of enjoyment, create intrinsic motivation. Other psychological rewards, such as wanting to go to college, create extrinsic motivation.
Mixing Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivation Can Backfire
One of the most common ways to motivate people is to offer external rewards. However, researchers have found that attempts to increase extrinsic motivations can sometimes create negative outcomes.
In a classic experiment, psychologists offered some preschoolers who already showed interest in drawing using “magic markers” a reward. When these children were later allowed to play freely, they showed little interest in playing with the markers again. But the children who had not been rewarded continued to draw with the markers 2.
When a person is already intrinsically motivated to do an activity, applying an extrinsic reward can decrease their intrinsic motivation. This is known as theoverjustification effect 3.
This is why parents who use operant conditioning – the practice of motivating a child using reward or punishment – to get them to study usually don’t result in positive outcomes in the long run.
The Importance Of Extrinsic Motivation
Decades of research have shown that extrinsic motivation is often less desirable than intrinsic motivation. When people are extrinsically motivated, the quality of engagement, persistence, and creativity tend to be worse 4.
Not only can extrinsic motivation interfere with intrinsic motivation (overjustification effect), but it is also inferior when it comes to motivating someone.
Should we forget about extrinsic motivation altogether?
Despite the drawbacks, extrinsic motivation is still important, especially in educational settings and in the workplace.
Not every activity is enjoyable for everyone, and not everyone can be passionate about the same thing. Therefore,in the absence of intrinsic motivation, we rely on extrinsic motivation to get the job done.
Fortunately, there are four types of extrinsic motivation, and not all of them are created equal.
Four Types Of Extrinsic Motivation
According toSelf-Determination Theory, the type of extrinsic motivation is different when the contextual factors are different.
Therefore, even when a person does not have intrinsic desire, you can still motivate them effectively, knowing which type of extrinsic motivation is at play.
Here are the four different types of extrinsic motivation 5:
1. External Regulation
External regulation means you do something to satisfy an external demand or receive external incentives.
An example would be a student who studies hard to get good grades to receive material rewards from his parents.
Although the behavior is intentional, it is controlled by an external source. Then this action isexternally regulated.
A person experiences an externally regulated behavior ascontrolledby external pressure rather than autonomous.
External regulation is the least desirable type of motivation and is typically used to contrast with intrinsic motivation.
2. Introjected Regulation
Introjection means taking in the cause of doing something but not fully accepting it.
An example would be a student who spends lots of time practicing piano for a recital because she believes if she doesn’t play well, others will look down on her.
This type of regulation is still perceived ascontrolledbecause introjected behavior is performed due to internal pressure to
- reduce guilt or anxiety,
- enhance ego or pride, or
- maintain self-esteem or feeling of self-worth
Although the person has accepted the goal of the activity as necessary, and the intention is internal (psychological), it is still not experienced as a “free choice.”
Introjected motivation is still not a desired type of motivation because the action is controlled or coerced by internal contingencies rather than being self-directed.
3. Regulation Through Identification
This is aless controllingform of extrinsic motivation.
Identification means the person consciously values a goal and believes the activity is personally important. They don’t do it simply because they feel they should.
An identified regulation example would be a student studying hard for the SAT exam because getting into college is important to him. Getting into college is aself-selected goal. Even though the behavior is extrinsically motivated, it is stillrelatively autonomous.
It will be different if a student does it because they think they “should” go to college like everyone else and will feel like a failure otherwise (introjected regulation) or because their parents are pressuring them to do so (external regulation).
4. Integrated Regulation
Integration occurs when one has fully taken in thereasonfor action, i.e., a person has examined the cause and found it compatible with their own values and needs. Then the action becomes self-initiated. It is autonomous and not controlled by external motivators 6.
Despite being extrinsic, integrated motivation shares many similar qualities as intrinsic motivation and is the best type of extrinsic motivation. Some researchers even refer to integrated regulation as intrinsic because the person has completely internalized the extrinsic cause into their values.
When intrinsic motivation is not possible, integrated regulation is the next best option.
Best Ways To Motivate Extrinsically
The four types of extrinsic motivation lie on a spectrum of autonomy, from the least autonomous (externally regulated) to the most autonomous (integrated) 7.
To reach integrated regulation, one needs to believe in the goal of the activity and feel that they choose it freely 8.
Two other factors that can lead to integrated regulation are 5:
- competence –the ability to achieve success and feel the inherent satisfaction, and
- relatedness –the feeling of being connected to others.
Here are what you can do to motivate someone who doesn’t have an intrinsic drive:
1. Find Good Reasons
A person needs to believe in the value of an activity to feel motivated. Therefore, provide good reasons. Good reasons align with the person’s values and needs.
2. Give Challenges and Feedback
Help a person feel competent by starting the activity at a notch or two beyond their current abilities so that it is challenging but also achievable.
As the person succeeds in completing the particular task, gradually stretch their limit and add new skills. Provide sincere, constructive, positive feedback without criticism along the way.
3. Connect with Those Who Are Motivated
People are inherently motivated to feel a sense of belonging and make social connections. Do an activity with someone relatable and passionate. For example, find a buddy, get a mentor, or join a team.
Also See: 7 Science-Proven Steps To Motivate Your Child
Final Thoughts On Extrinsic Motivation
Extrinsic motivation is not always worse. When you need to help people stay motivated on a task, using financial incentives or a reward system may work in the short run. But to obtain better long-term results, strive for integrated regulation by finding the right reason, getting a sense of competence, and feeling connected.
References
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1.
Ryan RM, Koestner R, Deci EL. Ego-involved persistence: When free-choice behavior is not intrinsically motivated. Motiv Emot. Published online September 1991:185-205. doi:10.1007/bf00995170
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2.
Lepper MR, Greene D, Nisbett RE. Undermining children’s intrinsic interest with extrinsic reward: A test of the “overjustification” hypothesis. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Published online 1973:129-137. doi:10.1037/h0035519
(Video) What are Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation? -
3.
Deci E, Koestner R, Ryan R. A meta-analytic review of experiments examining the effects of extrinsic rewards on intrinsic motivation. Psychol Bull. 1999;125(6):627-668; discussion 692-700. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10589297
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Ryan R, Deci E. Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivations: Classic Definitions and New Directions. Contemp Educ Psychol. 2000;25(1):54-67. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10620381
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Vallerand RJ. Toward A Hierarchical Model of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation. In: Advances in Experimental Social Psychology. Elsevier; 1997:271-360. doi:10.1016/s0065-2601(08)60019-2
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Ryan R, Deci E. Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. Am Psychol. 2000;55(1):68-78. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11392867
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Maslow AH. A Dynamic Theory of Human Motivation. In: Understanding Human Motivation. Howard Allen Publishers; :26-47. doi:10.1037/11305-004
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Scott Rigby C, Deci EL, Patrick BC, Ryan RM. Beyond the intrinsic-extrinsic dichotomy: Self-determination in motivation and learning. Motiv Emot. Published online September 1992:165-185. doi:10.1007/bf00991650
(Video) Intrinsic Motivation vs. Extrinsic Motivation: Which is Best?
FAQs
Extrinsic Motivation: How Many Different Types Are There? (Examples)? ›
There are four types of extrinsic motivation: external regulation, introjected regulation, identification, and integrated regulation. So, the next time you decide to do something, ask yourself why. You may find that you are extrinsically motivated.
How many types of extrinsic motivation are there? ›There are four types of extrinsic motivation: external regulation, introjected regulation, identification, and integrated regulation. So, the next time you decide to do something, ask yourself why. You may find that you are extrinsically motivated.
What is extrinsic motivation 2 examples? ›Extrinsic motivation is motivation that come from outside oneself. Examples include doing something for financial gain, promotion, praise or approval, or to win a competition.
What is the extrinsic type of motivation? ›What Is Extrinsic Motivation? Extrinsic motivation is a motivation that is driven by external rewards. These can be tangible, such as money or grades, or intangible, such as praise or fame. Unlike intrinsic motivation, which arises from within the individual, extrinsic motivation is focused purely on outside rewards.
Is the best example of extrinsic motivation? ›Being paid to do a job is an example of extrinsic motivation. You may enjoy spending your day doing something other than work, but you're motivated to go to work because you need a paycheck to pay your bills. In this example, you're extrinsically motivated by the ability to afford your daily expenses.
What is an example of extrinsic motivation quizlet? ›Define extrinsic motivation and give an example. This type of motivation is driven by external rewards, such as grades, money, or praise. When you have this type of motivation, you do something in order to get something else or to please someone else.
Which of the following is an example of extrinsic? ›In the given scenario, a doctor takes more appointments in order to gain a tangible and external reward, that is, money and thereby is an example of extrinsic motivation.
What is an example of extrinsic and intrinsic motivation? ›Example of Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Motivation
For example, reading about something because it's fun to learn is an example of intrinsic motivation. Reading about something to receive praise from an instructor is an example of extrinsic motivation.
Extrinsic motivation is defined as a motivation to participate in an activity based on meeting an external goal, garnering praise and approval, winning a competition, or receiving an award or payment.
What are 4 types of motivation? ›- Incentive motivation. Incentive motivation is all about external rewards. ...
- Fear motivation. Here you're motivated by the fear of an undesirable outcome. ...
- Power motivation. ...
- Social motivation.
What are the 3 types of intrinsic motivation? ›
- AUTONOMY – “the right or condition of self-government”
- MASTERY – “comprehensive knowledge or skill in a particular activity”
- PURPOSE – “the reason for which something is done”
Examples of extrinsic values may be a desire to be appreciated, approved, or accepted by others to avoid negative emotions or punishment, or to meet certain standards. This difference is important as it highlights the different ways in which values can motivate us.
What is an example of extrinsic motivation in school? ›Extrinsic motivation is external factors that help motivate students to work towards a task. Praise, grades and money are all examples of extrinsic motivation. Teachers using positive phrases is often used in the classroom and is used as extrinsic motivation.
What is extrinsic motivation quizlet? ›Extrinsic motivation refers to engaging in activities to reduce needs or obtain external rewards. Intrinsic motivation refers to engaging in activities because those activities are personally rewarding and they fulfill our beliefs or expectations.
What are the 3 sources of intrinsic or extrinsic motivation? ›There are three distinct sources of motivation; extrinsic (head), intrinsic (heart), and transcendent (soul).
What are types of extrinsic rewards? ›Extrinsic rewards are usually financial or tangible rewards given to employees, such as pay raises, bonuses, and benefits. They are extrinsic because they are external to completing the work itself and are controlled by people other than the employee.
Which is not an example of extrinsic motivation? ›Joining a debate society to gain knowledge is not an example of extrinsic motivation, it is a intrinsic motivation, defining as the doing of an activity for its inherent satisfaction rather than for some separable consequence.
What is extrinsic motivation examples to a child? ›- Playing a sport in order to win a prize.
- Finishing schoolwork to be able to watch TV.
- Helping around the house so they can go play with friends.
Going to College to Make Your Family Proud
For some, going to college is the “expected” next step after high school, but their sights are set on something else. Making your family proud or meeting their expectations is an extrinsic motivating factor if going to college isn't in your heart of hearts.
Extrinsic motivation may come from social sources, such as not wanting to disappoint a parent, or material rewards, such as trophies and college scholarships. Extrinsically motivated athletes tend to focus on the competitive or performance outcome.
What is an example of extrinsic motivation in football? ›
For example, in football, an extrinsically motivated player may see the end goal of making lots of money as their motivator so they need to improve as a player and get signed. They are often motivated by goods, rewards and recognition.
What are 3 examples of extrinsic properties? ›For example, mass, volume, and heat content are all considered extrinsic properties.
What are extrinsic characteristics examples? ›Extrinsic (AKA extensive) properties are properties that depend on the amount of the substance you have. All size measurements depend on amount, so all size measurements are extrinsic properties. For example, the length of a piece of wire depends on how much wire you have.
How do you use extrinsic motivation in a sentence? ›Some of those students were provided tangible rewards (e.g. money) as an extrinsic motivation and were observed by researchers to see how they reacted.
What is an example of extrinsic motivation PE? ›Extrinsic motivation comes from sources outside of the performer and usually involves rewards, for example, prize money, trophies, certificates or recognition.
What's an example of intrinsic motivation? ›Some examples of intrinsic motivation are: participating in a sport because it's fun and you enjoy it rather than doing it to win an award. learning a new language because you like experiencing new things, not because your job requires it.
What is positive extrinsic motivation? ›The theory of extrinsic motivation suggests that an individual is recognized for their positive behavior or effort with a reward. This reward can be either tangible (something physical, like money or gold stars) or intangible (something psychological, like praise or encouragement).
What is an example of an extrinsic reward for students? ›An extrinsic reward provides a tangible incentive for students to do a specific thing. Things like candy, stickers, a small toy, extra recess, and class parties are common extrinsic rewards used by elementary teachers.
What is extrinsic motivation for work? ›Extrinsic motivators: An employee motivated by external rewards performs work to specifically earn a reward meted out by the employer. The rewards are tangible and often monetary, like pay increases, new benefits, bonuses, or promotions.
What are the 7 types of motivation? ›- Reward-based motivation.
- Attitude motivation.
- Fear-based motivation.
- Creative motivation.
- Achievement motivation.
- Competence motivation.
- Power motivation.
What are the 5 motivations? ›
Through research with thousands of employees and leaders, we've discovered that there are five major motivations that drive people's actions at work; Achievement, Power, Affiliation, Security and Adventure.
What are the 10 types of motivation? ›- Types of Motivation. ...
- Achievement Motivation. ...
- Creative Motivation. ...
- Physiological Motivation. ...
- Reward Motivation. ...
- Fear Motivation. ...
- Social/ Affiliation Motivation. ...
- Competence Motivation.
Autonomy - We are much more likely to engage with activities we have chosen to do. Mastery - We are intrinsically motivated to get better and better at things that matter to us. Purpose - We are motivated when our actions are in service of something larger than ourselves.
What are the types of intrinsic and extrinsic? ›In psychology, there are two different types of motivation: intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation.
What are the six types of intrinsic motivation? ›- Autonomy.
- Belonging.
- Competence.
- Purpose.
- Fun.
- Curiosity.
Extrinsic factors are factors in the environment external to the food, which affect both the microorganisms and the food itself during processing and storage. Extrinsic factors include temperature, humidity and oxygen.
Which are extrinsic? ›extrinsic applies to what is distinctly outside the thing in question or is not contained in or derived from its essential nature. extraneous applies to what is on or comes from the outside and may or may not be capable of becoming an essential part.
What is considered extrinsic? ›Extrinsic. 1. Not contained in or belonging to a body; external; outward; unessential; opposed to intrinsic. The extrinsic aids of education and of artificial culture. (
What are extrinsic factors in learning? ›Extrinsic motivation is motivation caused by external factors, such as gifts, high-value, award, praise others, and so forth. Intrinsic motivation is motivation caused by factors from within, as if to get a personal satisfaction, want to have the knowledge or ability to do anything, and so forth.
Is fear an extrinsic motivation? ›Extrinsic motivation is a response to an external factor, where someone besides the employee is compelling the action. Put a different way, shame and fear are extrinsic motivations.
What is extrinsic motivation in education? ›
Extrinsic Motivation: Extrinsic motivation includes outside motivational forces, such as a reward, that push students to work hard. This means accomplishing tasks because there are rewards associated with it. Extrinsic motivators often include grades, parental, teacher, and social expectations.
Which is true of extrinsic motivation? ›Which of the following is true of extrinsic motivation? The source of motivation is the consequences of the behavior, not the behavior itself.
What are the three types of extrinsic motivation? ›- AUTONOMY – “the right or condition of self-government”
- MASTERY – “comprehensive knowledge or skill in a particular activity”
- PURPOSE – “the reason for which something is done”
- Incentive motivation. Incentive motivation is all about external rewards. ...
- Fear motivation. Here you're motivated by the fear of an undesirable outcome. ...
- Power motivation. ...
- Social motivation.
The present analysis classified the following three general goals as extrinsic, in that they primarily entail obtaining contingent external approval and rewards: financial success (money), social recognition (fame), and an appealing appearance (image).
What is an example of extrinsic motivation in the workplace? ›Compensation
Compensation serves as an extrinsic motivator for employees. In the workplace, individuals perform their job duties with the promise that the company plans to pay them at an agreed-upon rate.
Define extrinsic motivation and give an example. This type of motivation is driven by external rewards, such as grades, money, or praise. When you have this type of motivation, you do something in order to get something else or to please someone else.
What is an example of extrinsic motivation for students? ›Extrinsic motivation, however, is learning because of external factors. Students may be motivated to learn to pass a test, to gain a reward, or to avoid a punishment. An example of extrinsic motivation is a student who is studying so their parents will not ground them for poor grades.
What are the big 3 motivation? ›McClelland's human motives model distinguishes three major motives: the need for achievement, affiliation, and power.
What are the three 3 major motivating factors? ›Daniel Pink, in his book, Drive, lists three elements of the motivation formula: autonomy, mastery, and purpose. In situations where people are paid fairly, this trio drives, engages, and stimulates us to do our best work.