Lifelong Sport

The effect of extrinsic motivation on intrinsic motivation is a complex issue that has been studied by psychologists for many years.

In sports, as in most things, someone who is intrinsically motivated to perform, play and engage is greatly preferred over someone who isn’t, for many reasons.

A state of intrinsic motivation has been found to promote enhanced learning including deep conceptual learning. It leads to greater performance, creativity, affective experience, behavioural persistence and cognitive flexibility.

While due to several factors, chief amongst them is the relationship between intrinsic motivation and greater mobilization of the central executive network.

This is because neuroscience has begun to show us that there is a strong link between intrinsic motivation and the dopamine (the pleasure/reward) system within the brain.

Intrinsic motivation is built upon greater curiosity and interest and participants who are motivated intrinsically are creatively exploring their field of interest. Through this curiosity and exploration they unshackle themselves from a default state of mind, unlock the central executive network state, and engage higher levels of concentration, have greater recollection of facts and events and a deeper, more immersive experience.

An amazing state for our players to be in for sure!

Despite all these remarkable advantages to intrinsic motivation, there is a time and place for extrinsic motivation, in fact it is hard to avoid. Whether it is praise and recognition for a job well done, financial incentives, an ice block after practice and many others, it exists at all levels and aspects of life.

There are pitfalls to utilising extrinsic motivation though there are some occasions when it can be beneficial.

In short though, there is no simple answer, as the effect can vary depending on the individual, the task, and the way in which the extrinsic motivation is offered. In addition to these factors, the level of intrinsic motivation a person has the greater the negative impact extrinsic motivation will have on intrinsic motivation.

In general, extrinsic motivation can undermine intrinsic motivation if it is used in a way that makes people feel controlled or pressured. For example, if a child is given a reward for reading a book, they may start to read only for the reward and not because they enjoy it.

However, extrinsic motivation can also add to intrinsic motivation if it is used in a way that supports and enhances the individual’s sense of autonomy. For example, if a child is given a reward for reading a book, but the reward is framed as a way to celebrate their accomplishment and not as a way to control their behaviour, it is more likely to have a positive effect on their intrinsic motivation.

It has been demonstrated repeatedly that if an individual was initially intrinsically motivated, if they are then extrinsically motivated with some sort of external inducement, the intrinsic motivation is reduced. Even after the extrinsic motivation is taken away the intrinsic motivation remains lower than initial levels. That is to say that over time the extrinsic motivation diminishes the intrinsic motivation, and it remains depressed even after it has been removed.

This is known as the over justification effect.

To explain this in a crude way: if an individual was 100% motivated and then an external reward was offered, well you can’t have 150% motivation, something has to give. What gives is their intrinsic motivation decreases to make space for the new external motivation.

Extrinsic motivation decreases intrinsic motivation for individuals who are already internally motivated.

What about people who are only slightly intrinsically motivated? Yes, for these people it will add to their intrinsic motivation, with one caveat. If it is used over the long term it will erode their intrinsic motivation.

Other factors that can influence the effect of extrinsic motivation on intrinsic motivation include:

• Some types of extrinsic motivation, such as rewards, are more likely to undermine intrinsic motivation than others, such as feedback.
• Rewards that are seen as valuable are more likely to undermine intrinsic motivation than rewards that are seen as less valuable.
• Rewards that are given immediately after the desired behaviour is more likely to undermine intrinsic motivation than rewards that are given later.
• Some people are more susceptible to the undermining effects of extrinsic motivation than others.

Overall, the effect of extrinsic motivation on intrinsic motivation is complex and depends on a variety of factors. When used appropriately, extrinsic motivation can be a helpful tool for promoting motivation and learning, especially for beginners and those with low intrinsic motivation. However, it is important to be aware of the potential negative effects of extrinsic motivation and to use it in a way that minimizes these effects.

Here are some additional things to consider when using extrinsic motivation:

1. Make sure the extrinsic reward is something that the individual values.
2. Give the extrinsic reward immediately after the desired behaviour is performed.
3. Avoid using extrinsic rewards too often, as this can lead to habituation.
4. Focus on intrinsic motivation by providing opportunities for the individual to learn and grow.

Ultimately, the goal should be to use extrinsic motivation in a way that supports and enhances the development of intrinsic motivation as this is the ideal state of being. Additionally, when using extrinsic motivation remain cognisant and vigilant of the effect it will be having on their intrinsic motivation.

This will help people to develop a long-term interest in the activity and to achieve their goals in a way that is both enjoyable and fulfilling.