Extrinsic motivation

Definition

Typically driven by rewards or incentives, and doesn’t always have to be a tangible reward; such as praise and fame. One engages in an activity, not necessarily because they enjoy it, but because they will receive something in value or avoid something unpleasant.

Examples

  • Going to work for that fat check. 
  • Winning a trophy after a competition. 
  • Doing tasks to avoid judgement. 
  • Getting good grades for validation from family.

How this can be applied to exercise

 

  • Working out because it’s good for your health. 
  • Getting into shape to win a body building competition/show (that’s a thing right?).
  • Working out and eating healthy to avoid disease or illness. 

“Controlled forms of extrinsic motivation are expected within SDT to sometimes regulate (or motivate) short-term behavior, but not to sustain maintenance over time” (Teixiera, 2012). 
An example of this: exercising because one values its outcomes and desires to maintain good heath. 

We need to be careful with overcompensating ourselves and each other with rewards and use it sparingly so that this kind of motivation doesn’t lose impact or value, or become dependent on it. 

- Overjustification Effect.