Extrinsic Motivation is often made of external, tangible and intangible rewards such as money, trophies, grades, praise from family  friends, or social recognition (fame). Extrinsic motivation arises from the outside of the individual. Such external factors compel an individual to engage in a task even though the person does not have the enthusiasm from within to engage in the activity, but just because of the prize at stake or the reward he or she may get, or to avoid being punished for not doing it. For example, Mr. Rice, studying and reading a course material because he wants to get a good grade (grade A). The good grade becomes the driving force behind his reason for studying and reading the course material, otherwise he would not do it.

Intrinsic Motivation can be described as the driving force from within a person. With this type of motivation, an individual engages in an activity or a task purposely for the fun, enjoyment or satisfaction it brings to the person, not the motive of getting any external reward. For example, Mrs. Rice, reading and studying a course material because she finds it fascinating and the utility value she derives from it. She engages with the material not for grades or for praise from anyone.

Extrinsic Motivation Example

Scenario 1: Extrinsic Motivation

Background: John, a student in high school, is enrolled in a chemistry course for this semester. He doesn’t enjoy chemistry and struggles to understand the concepts.

Situation: John has been promised a substantial reward by his parents for excelling in chemistry. They are aware that he is setting money aside for a new gaming console, and they promise to purchase it for him if he earns an A in the course. Moreover, John is exerting a significant amount of dedication to receive acknowledgment for his academic achievements by securing a place on the honor roll at his school to enhance his college admission prospects.

Action: John is driven by the potential of the gaming console and his goal of academic success, pushing him to allocate more time to studying chemistry. After school, he attends tutoring, completes his homework meticulously, and tackles extra problems to ensure comprehension of the material. Despite his lack of passion for chemistry, his determination to earn a gaming console and achieve recognition on the honor roll drives him to put in a lot of effort.

Outcome: John’s dedication results in him earning an A in chemistry. Receiving the gaming console and being on the honor roll from his parents both make him feel satisfied and confirm the importance of his hard work. If it weren’t for those external incentives, John wouldn’t have been as driven to succeed in that particular topic.

Intrinsic Motivation Example

Scenario 2: Intrinsic Motivation

Background: Emma, who works as a graphic designer, has always had a strong love for digital art. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring different artistic methods and trying out new styles.

Situation: Emma recently stumbled upon a set of online tutorials focused on advanced illustration techniques with a new software tool. There is no professional necessity or external motivation for her to acquire knowledge of this new tool; her current position does not require it, and there are no benefits or acknowledgments associated with becoming proficient in it.

Action: Motivated by her passion for digital art and a goal to enhance her abilities, Emma enthusiastically participates in the tutorials. Every night, she dedicates hours to honing the new skills, designing artwork, and experimenting with the functions of the software. She finds great satisfaction in learning and creating art. She posts her work on social media not to receive likes or praise, but because she likes engaging with other artists and receiving feedback to enhance her skills.

Outcome: Emma’s innate drive helps her to achieve a strong level of expertise with the new software. Witnessing the enhancement of her work quality and progress brings her a deep sense of achievement and happiness. She is driven by the pleasure and satisfaction she gets from the process of learning, without seeking external rewards or acknowledgment.

Readings/Videos/Podcasts

What to know about extrinsic motivation

Intrinsic Motivation: How Internal Rewards Drive Behavior

Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation: Difference & Best Practices