What does extrinsic motivation involve?

Extrinsic motivation involves engaging in behaviors or activities primarily to achieve a separate outcome that is external to the activity itself. This often means striving for external rewards such as money, praise, recognition, or other tangible benefits. Individuals driven by extrinsic motivation may participate in an activity not because they find it inherently enjoyable or fulfilling, but rather because they are seeking some form of reward or to avoid negative consequences.

For instance, a student might study hard for a test not because they enjoy the subject or find personal satisfaction in learning, but because they want to earn a high grade, win a scholarship, or gain parental approval. This focus on external outcomes highlights the distinction between extrinsic motivation and other forms, such as intrinsic motivation, which involves finding personal satisfaction in the activity itself.