Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to perform an activity due to external rewards or pressures rather than for personal satisfaction. This type of motivation often involves tangible rewards, such as money, grades, or praise, which encourage individuals to complete tasks or achieve goals. For example, a student may study hard to earn a good grade in school, motivated by the desire to please their parents or receive a scholarship.
In contrast to intrinsic motivation, which is driven by internal satisfaction, extrinsic motivation can sometimes lead to short-term engagement. While it can effectively encourage behavior, relying solely on external rewards may diminish a person's intrinsic interest in the activity over time. Understanding the balance between these two types of motivation is essential for fostering long-term engagement and success.