Extrinsic Motivation

What Energizes Extrinsic Motivation?

Extrinsic motivation is energized by external factors such as an expectation of keeping a job, advancing or getting a promotion, being well paid, keeping one’s boss happy, gaining some recognition, or being praised for a job well done.

In other words, extrinsic motivation occurs when individuals are motivated to perform a behavior or engage in an activity in order to earn a reward or avoid punishment. This kind of motivation works in coercive systems in which compliance is expected, where the vision is espoused from the top down, expecting people to “buy-into” it or at least accept it.