Extrinsic Motivation
Extrinsic motivation refers to motivation that is driven by external incentives, expectations, or consequences. The behavior is performed to obtain something or avoid something.
Extrinsic motivation is not inherently negative, but varies in quality.
Deepening
Inside Self-determination theory Extrinsic motivation is distinguished into different forms of regulation. It can range from highly controlled to largely integrated.
Controlled extrinsic motivation arises under pressure, reward, evaluation, or obligation. This often leads to tension and defensiveness.
Internalized extrinsic motivation arises when external goals are integrated into one's own value framework. In that case, it approaches autonomous motivation.
Important distinction: Extrinsic does not automatically mean superficial or bad. The quality depends on the degree of autonomy support.
Relationship to INR
Within the INR Model framework, extrinsic motivation is understood as a response to contextual pressure or expectations.
When autonomy or relatedness are threatened, extrinsic motivation can shift toward controlled motivation and reinforce defensive behaviors.
INR therefore does not examine whether motivation is intrinsic or extrinsic, but rather which structure of meaning makes the behavior logical.