Extrinsic Motivation

Definition

Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity based on external rewards or pressures rather than intrinsic satisfaction or personal interest. This type of motivation is fueled by factors such as money, grades, praise, or avoiding punishment. Understanding extrinsic motivation is crucial when analyzing character development, as it often shapes the actions and decisions characters make in pursuit of their goals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Extrinsic motivation can lead to short-term engagement but may not foster long-lasting interest in the task being performed.
2. Characters motivated extrinsically might face conflict when their external rewards are threatened or removed, leading to shifts in their behavior.
3. The effectiveness of extrinsic motivation can vary based on the individual and the context, with some people responding better to external rewards than others.
4. In storytelling, extrinsic motivation can be used to create tension and drive plot developments, especially when characters are faced with moral dilemmas regarding their goals.
5. While extrinsic rewards can initially boost performance, over-reliance on them may undermine intrinsic motivation and creativity in character development.

Review Questions

• How does extrinsic motivation influence character actions and conflicts within a narrative?
  • Extrinsic motivation plays a significant role in shaping character actions and conflicts by pushing them toward specific goals driven by external rewards. Characters may pursue success for reasons such as money, recognition, or approval from others. This can create internal conflict when their desires clash with personal values or when external rewards are jeopardized, leading to rich narrative tension and development.
• In what ways can a character's reliance on extrinsic motivation impact their relationships with other characters?
  • When a character heavily relies on extrinsic motivation, it can strain relationships with others who may feel used or undervalued. For instance, if a character is only seeking approval or rewards from friends or family, it can create feelings of resentment among those who wish for genuine connections. This dynamic may lead to conflicts that challenge the character’s goals and force them to reevaluate what truly matters in their interactions with others.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of extrinsic motivation on a character's development throughout a story. How might this shape their growth or regression?
  • The long-term effects of extrinsic motivation on a character's development can lead to either growth or regression based on how they navigate their motivations. If a character learns to balance extrinsic rewards with intrinsic satisfaction, they may experience significant personal growth, gaining deeper insights into their desires and values. Conversely, if they become overly reliant on external validation, it could stifle their creativity and lead to stagnation in their personal journey. Ultimately, this struggle with motivation can define their arc and impact the story's outcome.

Related terms

Intrinsic Motivation: Intrinsic motivation comes from within an individual, driven by personal satisfaction or a genuine interest in the task itself, rather than external rewards.

Reward System: A reward system is a structure designed to provide incentives for desired behaviors or outcomes, influencing motivation through external validation.

Goal-Oriented Behavior: Goal-oriented behavior refers to actions driven by the desire to achieve specific objectives, often influenced by either intrinsic or extrinsic motivators.