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Intrinsic drive: Description, illustrations, and advantages explained

Intrinsic Drive: Definition, Illustrations, and Advantages Explained

Intrinsic Drives: Clarification, Illustrations, and Advantages
Intrinsic Drives: Clarification, Illustrations, and Advantages

Intrinsic drive: Description, illustrations, and advantages explained

In the realm of motivation, two primary forces drive individuals to achieve their goals: extrinsic and intrinsic. While both can help people change their habits and reach their objectives, their long-term effects on goal achievement and learning differ significantly.

Extrinsic motivation, stemming from external factors such as rewards, punishments, or consequences, can be effective initially and for specific tasks. For instance, it can kickstart engagement in tasks, especially for reluctant learners or challenging goals. However, overreliance on extrinsic motivators may lead to decreased intrinsic motivation, reduced engagement after rewards end, and challenges in sustaining motivation without continuous external incentives [1][3][5].

One of the key issues with extrinsic motivation is its short-term focus. Extrinsic motivation can cause individuals to prioritize reward attainment over the quality of their work or ethical standards, potentially leading to shortcuts or lower long-term learning outcomes [1]. Furthermore, extrinsic motivators often require ongoing reinforcement; without continuous reward, motivation might drop sharply. Additionally, the effect of rewards may diminish, requiring larger incentives to maintain the same motivation level, which can be unsustainable [1].

On the other hand, intrinsic motivation, which comes from within, without the need for external rewards or punishments, can have a stronger effect on the formation of habits [Intrinsic motivators, such as feeling healthier after quitting smoking, can have a stronger effect on the formation of habits, according to a study]. However, a significant downside of intrinsic motivation is that a person must genuinely want to do something to benefit from it [A significant downside of intrinsic motivation is that a person must genuinely want to do something to benefit from it]. People can influence and inspire others to have intrinsic motivation by changing their perspective on a task, but this can be a skill that people have to learn [6].

Balancing intrinsic and extrinsic motivation is crucial for longer-lasting goal achievement and deeper learning. When external rewards complement rather than replace internal interest, learners tend to sustain motivation better and continue learning beyond initial goals [3]. For example, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends non-food rewards for children, such as stickers, play dates, sleepovers, fun trips or activities, and time off from chores [7].

Research has shown that both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators can encourage achievement. A 2019 study of biology students found that both intrinsic and extrinsic motivators could encourage achievement [8]. However, some research suggests that intrinsic motivation might have a better effect on habit formation [2].

In conclusion, extrinsic motivation can be effective initially and for specific tasks but generally has limitations for long-term goal achievement and learning unless carefully balanced with fostering intrinsic motivation and personal engagement [1][3][5]. Meanwhile, intrinsic motivation, driven by pleasure, passion, moral principles, and achievement motivation, can have a stronger impact on habit formation and long-term success. By understanding the nuances between these two types of motivation, individuals and educators can create a more balanced and effective approach to goal achievement and learning.

References: [1] Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68-78. [2] Koestner, R., & Losier, F. J. (2002). Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation: The search for optimal functioning. Canadian Psychology, 43(1), 1-12. [3] Lepper, M. R., Greene, D., & Nisbett, R. E. (1973). Undermining children's intrinsic interest with extrinsic reward. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 25(1), 129-137. [4] Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1985). Intrinsic motivation and self-determination in human behaviour. Canadian Psychology, 26(1), 1-10. [5] Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-determination theory: Basic psychological needs in motivation, development, and wellness. Guilford Publications. [6] Self-determination theory (SDT) asserts that autonomy - a person's ability to make their own decisions - is highly important for happiness and growth, and external pressures can limit this. [7] The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends non-food rewards for children, such as stickers, play dates, sleepovers, fun trips or activities, and time off from chores. [8] Another 2019 study found that intrinsic motivation to read led to more reading achievement in some grades, but there was no such link to extrinsic motivation.

  1. In the realm of learning and self-development, balancing intrinsic and extrinsic motivators can foster deeper learning and sustain motivation better over the long term.
  2. For instance, while extrinsic motivation may initiate engagement in tasks, such as rewards for completing assignments, a reliance on external incentives might hinder intrinsic motivation and learning outcomes in the long run.
  3. On the other hand, intrinsic motivation, driven by personal interest and passion, can have a significant impact on habit formation and long-term success in areas like mental health, other mental health, neurology, education-and-self-development, and even parenthood.

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