definition of extrinsic vs intrinsic motivation

External Rewards Complicate Intrinsic Motivation In other words, what one person finds intrinsically motivating may leave another person feeling demotivated. Feelings of satisfaction, a sense of progress, or the knowledge that you are helping others can help contribute to this sense of intrinsic motivation. When you help a friend, volunteer in your community, learn a new skill, or participate in religious activity, you are gaining something inside of yourself that acts as a reward. It’s just that these rewards are usually internal. This is not to say that intrinsically motivated behaviors are not without rewards. Hobbies such as gardening, painting, dancing, and crafting all bring enjoyment and happiness to those who participate in them. Many of the activities you engage in on a regular basis are likely driven by such internal rewards. The benefit of intrinsic motivation is that it is typically a much more powerful and enduring force than extrinsic motivation. You run because the behavior itself is its own reward. While there are extrinsic rewards present such as trophies, ribbons, and recognition, chances are that the forces motivating you to drag yourself out of bed each morning and tie on your running shoes are intrinsic in nature.

For example, if you happen to enjoy running marathons, what is it that motivates you to compete in these grueling physical challenges. Think about some of the things that you enjoy doing. Why Do Rewards Impact Intrinsic Motivation?.External Rewards Complicate Intrinsic Motivation.

Definition of extrinsic vs intrinsic motivation