Understanding extrinsic motivation

Understanding extrinsic motivation

This first lesson on extrinsic motivation introduces the concept. You’ll learn what extrinsic motivation is, how it compares to intrinsic motivation, and why it’s more nuanced than the classic “carrot-and-stick” approach. We’ll also explore the spectrum of extrinsic motivation, from external regulation to fully integrated behaviors, helping you see how motivation plays out in real-world scenarios. This lesson sets the stage for the next two, where we’ll dive deeper into the potential pitfalls of extrinsic motivation and how to use it effectively in the workplace.

What can you expect from this topic?
  • Understand the definition of extrinsic motivation and how it contrasts with intrinsic motivation.
  • Explore the spectrum of extrinsic motivation, from external to autonomous regulation.
  • Learn how this foundational understanding connects to the risks and best practices covered in the next two lessons.
[ld_video]

The dimensions of extrinsic motivation

Bibliography

List of notes and sources we reference from.

Notes & Sources
  1. Cherry, Kendra, Extrinsic Motivation, 2019. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-extrinsic-motivation-2795164
  2. Edward L. Deci, Anja H. Olafsen, Richard M. Ryan, Self-Determination Theory in Work Organizations: The State of a Science, https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/c1ee/794111e99de40f7143b4270a198278a8525d.pdf?_ga=2.180183852.924176708.1578089050-324802070.1578089050