Reward-Induced Decrements and Increments in Intrinsic Motivation

Abstract

The circumstances under which rewards undermine or enhance intrinsic interest are examined. It emerges that the recipient’s perception of the functions of the dispensed reward is critically important. In particular, the distinction between reward instrumentality and rewards as symbols of success explains a vast array of otherwise contradictory findings. Quality and quantity of reward are shown not to be important per se, nor is there any evidence that undermining effects are associated with other disruptive effects on performance. A feature of current explanations of overjustification effects is the extent to which they carry implications for classroom practice. However, no extant explanation seems capable of incorporating all the available findings. Important directions for future research concern the interaction of reward-induced effects and other influences on intrinsic motivation and the relationship between school achievement and intrinsic interest in school activities.