How to Compare & Contrast Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation

Intrinsic reward involves doing something for the sake of getting pure enjoyment out of a particular activity while extrinsic reward focuses on the outcome. Intrinsic is more self-determination and extrinsic focuses on the end result.

Intrinsic Motivation

• Intrinsic motivation provides a person a sense of energy and commitment to a task that cannot be replaced by any extrinsic reward. Some early research on intrinsic motivation had an either-or orientation, with researchers believing that extrinsic rewards would drive out intrinsic motivation. But later research found that the two kinds of rewards often support each other. Intrinsic motivation is a choice that is made by a feeling that sparks personal interest. The intrinsic value is in the experience or action and is not based on a potential positive ending.

Extrinsic Motivation

• Extrinsic motivation is doing an activity because you feel that it is necessary. It could provide income, status, or some sort of reward that you feels is important. But it overlooks happiness and interest. When someone has to himself do something he doesn't want to do, he is not getting pleasure from an activity. Although the outcome may be something that will make him happy and satisfied with himself, he is still putting his body and mind through an activity for the wrong reasons.

Considerations.

• While extrinsic rewards can produce end results, intrinsic rewards bring happiness and prosperity to life. Extrinsic rewards take time while intrinsic reward happen immediately and can generate positive feelings toward others. When learning new things, the individual overcomes obstacles and gains confidence for future tasks. Although extrinsic rewards may play a role in success, intrinsic rewards are the best incentives.