What is a key characteristic of extrinsic motivation?

Extrinsic motivation is primarily characterized by the pursuit of external rewards or incentives. This form of motivation arises from outside the individual, which can include factors such as money, fame, praise, grades, or other tangible rewards. When someone is motivated extrinsically, they engage in an activity not for the intrinsic enjoyment of the task itself but for the outcome that is promised by participation.

For example, a student may study hard for an exam primarily to receive a high grade (an external reward) rather than for the sake of learning itself. This understanding is crucial for health and wellness coaching, as it frames how individuals might approach their health-related goals, like sticking to an exercise regimen or following a diet, mainly for the external benefits (such as weight loss or recognition) rather than intrinsic enjoyment.

In contrast, intrinsic motivation is characterized by personal satisfaction, self-improvement, and alignment with personal values, which are not the primary focus when considering extrinsic motivation. External rewards effectively drive behavior, stimulating individuals to act in ways that align with their goals when those goals are associated with these outside motivators. This framework helps coaches identify how to support clients in achieving their health and wellness objectives, whether through encouraging intrinsic motivations or recognizing when extrinsic factors might be