​Which of the following correctly describes extrinsic motivation?​

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Motivation that comes from environmental consequences.
Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to perform a behavior or engage in an activity due to external rewards or outcomes rather than for the activity itself. These environmental consequences include rewards like grades, praise, money, trophies, recognition, or avoidance of punishment.

For example, a student may study hard not because they enjoy the subject (which would be intrinsic motivation), but because they want to receive a high score or avoid scolding. The behavior is driven by external reinforcers rather than internal satisfaction or interest.

Information Booster

1. External Triggers: Includes rewards, punishments, grades, stickers, medals, etc.
2. Operant Conditioning: Rooted in Skinner’s theory where behavior is shaped by consequences.
3. Short-term Effectiveness: Works well for tasks lacking initial interest but may fade once rewards stop.
4. Risk of Overjustification: Too many rewards can reduce intrinsic interest in the task.
5. Classroom Use: Common in behavior management and reinforcement schedules.

Additional Knowledge

• (b) Sense of personal satisfaction: This defines intrinsic motivation, where one is driven by internal fulfillment and achievement.
• (c) Personal enjoyment of the task: Also a form of intrinsic motivation—doing something simply because it's enjoyable or engaging.
• (d) Internal factors: This again refers to intrinsic motivation, where behavior is guided by personal values, interests, or curiosity.