Extrinsic Motivation

Definition

Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity due to external rewards or pressures rather than for the inherent enjoyment of the activity itself. This type of motivation often comes from outside the individual, such as praise, money, or avoiding negative consequences. In the context of character motivation, understanding extrinsic factors can reveal why characters pursue certain goals, showcasing their desires for approval or material gain, which can add depth to their development and story arcs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Characters driven by extrinsic motivation often seek approval from others, which can lead to conflict when their desires clash with personal values or relationships.
2. Extrinsic motivation can manifest in various forms, including financial incentives, social status, awards, or simply avoiding disapproval.
3. The presence of extrinsic motivators can enhance a character's pursuit of goals but may also lead to a lack of satisfaction if the rewards are not fulfilling.
4. Understanding a character's extrinsic motivations can help audiences empathize with them, as these motivations often reflect real-life societal pressures.
5. In plays, contrasting extrinsic and intrinsic motivations within characters can create tension and depth, showcasing the complexities of human behavior.

Review Questions

• How does extrinsic motivation influence character decisions and conflicts within a narrative?
  • Extrinsic motivation heavily influences character decisions by pushing them towards actions that seek external validation or rewards. For example, a character might work tirelessly for a promotion to gain approval from their boss rather than out of passion for their job. This pursuit can lead to conflicts, especially when their need for approval clashes with their relationships or personal ethics, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
• Discuss how the interplay between extrinsic and intrinsic motivation can shape character arcs in a play.
  • The interplay between extrinsic and intrinsic motivations can significantly shape character arcs by creating internal struggles. A character initially motivated by external rewards might experience a transformation as they confront deeper personal desires or ethical dilemmas. This shift can lead to a richer narrative where the character learns that fulfillment comes from within rather than from outside sources, ultimately enhancing the emotional impact of the story.
• Evaluate the role of extrinsic motivation in driving plot development and thematic exploration in dramatic writing.
  • Extrinsic motivation plays a crucial role in driving plot development by propelling characters into actions that align with societal expectations or pressures. As characters chase external rewards, themes such as ambition, greed, or the quest for validation emerge, allowing playwrights to explore complex human experiences. The tension created by characters' extrinsic motivations not only fuels conflict but also invites audiences to reflect on the broader implications of seeking approval or material success in their own lives.

Related terms

Intrinsic Motivation: Intrinsic motivation is the drive to engage in an activity because it is inherently interesting or enjoyable, rather than for some separable consequence.

Reward System: A reward system refers to the structured approach of providing external incentives or rewards to encourage specific behaviors or achievements.

Behavioral Psychology: Behavioral psychology is a field that studies how external stimuli influence behavior, often focusing on the role of rewards and punishments in motivating actions.