Differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation

Although there are many theories about what motivates us, the truth is that People are motivated by both internal and external factors. Personality, self-concept and the type of task usually determine whether intrinsic motivation is dominant or extrinsic.

Why do we do what we do? What drives our behavior? Do you want to feel more motivated to succeed in your daily life? Every behavior has an underlying cause. Thus, understanding the motivators that drive behavior are key to changing or improving your results.

This is undoubtedly an issue that affects all of us directly. Experiences such as passing an exam, losing weight, getting our children to learn something certain, achieving a work goal or even improving as human beings require us to integrate that magical component: motivation. However, the way in which we achieve this achievement is mediated by a wide series of processes.

Let’s delve into them below.

What is extrinsic motivation

Extrinsic motivation is defined as all those actions that we perform in order to obtain some type of external reward. It can be something physical, monetary or a psychological reinforcement. That is to say, the motivating factor is not a natural consequence of the task.

Psychological forms of extrinsic motivation can also be praise. Children, for example, base a good part of their early behaviors on this type of motivation: they crave positive reinforcement from adults to regulate their behavior, build their identity and, in turn, form the basis of intrinsic motivation.

In fact, we cannot leave aside a key aspect: a large part of extrinsic motivation becomes intrinsic motivation; sooner or later the human being learns to carry out a series of behaviors and actions without expecting anything in return. In fact, We are not wrong if we say that this process, this change is one of the most analyzed in the world of education.as revealed by a study carried out at the University of Ottawa and the University of Quebec, in Canada.

What is intrinsic motivation

One of the best-known theories about intrinsic motivation is self-determination. Stated in 1975 by psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, both professors at the University of Rochester, it states that people have three innate psychological needs:

The need to feel competent. The need to relate. The need to have autonomy.

Thus, intrinsic motivation arises in human beings from the combination of these three dimensions. Reference is made above all to those actions where the person carries out a series of behaviors of their own will, inspiration and desire. Never to obtain a mere external reward.

Some Examples of this type of motivation are studying to improve and feeling fulfilleddo what is asked of you because you know it is your duty and thus you know you are a better person, do the work because you assume it as your obligation and thus you feel satisfied with yourself or participate in sports to improve yourself.

On the other hand, all those spontaneous tendencies that we carry out out of mere curiosity, to seek challenges or in order to develop our skills and knowledge, generate a whole series of benefits in our brain. This is undoubtedly a very relevant fact that invites us to reflect.

As revealed in a study carried out at Strathfield University, Australia and published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, Intrinsic motivation favors the appearance of serotonin in our body, cognitive processes improve and stress is relieved.

Which is better, intrinsic or extrinsic motivation?

The main difference between the two types of motivation is that extrinsic motivation arises from outside the person and intrinsic motivation arises from the task itself.. This does not mean that extrinsic motivation is worse than intrinsic motivation. However, there are some important factors to keep in mind, especially when it comes to motivating others.

Researchers have found that The two types of motivation can differ in people’s effectiveness. Some studies have shown that excessive external rewards for an already internally rewarding behavior can lead to a reduction in intrinsic reward. This phenomenon is called the overjustification effect.

Howeverextrinsic motivation can be beneficial in some situations. For example, external rewards may trigger interest in participating in something in which the individual had no initial interest. Furthermore, extrinsic rewards can be used to motivate others to acquire new skills or knowledge. Once these early skills have been learned, people can evolve towards intrinsic motivation to continue developing the activity.

External rewards can also be an important source of informationallowing people to know when they have achieved the required level of performance, have exceeded the average or have reached the level expected of them.

Although most specialists suggest that intrinsic is better, it is not always possible. In some cases, people simply have no internal desire to participate in an activity. On the other hand, although over-rewarding can be problematic, when used appropriately they can be a useful tool.

The role of rewards

Researchers Lepper, Henderlong and Gingras from the University of Rochester in the United Kingdom have reached three conclusions regarding extrinsic rewards and their influence on intrinsic motivation. Notably Unexpected external rewards typically do not undermine intrinsic motivation.. For example, if a student gets a good grade because they enjoy learning and receive a reward, their motivation to learn will not be affected.

A second conclusion is that Praise can increase internal motivation. Researchers have found that social recognition and feedback Positively, when someone’s performance is above average, it can increase intrinsic motivation. Other types of extrinsic motivators, such as materials, can decrease intrinsic motivation when it is already high.

Motivate others: How to apply extrinsic motivation?

Surely, many people are wondering How do I motivate my son, my father, my friend, my boyfriend…? First of all, we must keep in mind that there are various factors that influence motivation and there are no miraculous solutions.

But, for those who try to extrinsically motivate another person, it is important to keep in mind:

The purpose, objective or goal, must interest the other person. Therefore, it is very important to empathize and think that each person is different, like their objectives, tastes, goals, etc.Be simple. You don’t need to provide great or expensive things to motivate someone.Be creative. The surprise factor is a great source of motivation

Some simple examples where you seek to properly motivate others:

If your son likes to spend time with you and you like to practice the piano, then listen to him rehearse. For your father, your happiness gives him the strength to go to work, smile at him when he walks out the door. They leave your best friend alone and don’t wants to leave the house, motivate him by going with him to the bar that he always suggests and that they never go to.

Finally, Extrinsic motivation and intrinsic motivation can also play an important role in shaping learning. Some experts argue that the emphasis on external rewards reduces any intrinsic motivation. Others suggest that these extrinsic motivators help students feel more competent in the classroom, thus improving intrinsic motivation.

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