Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

Which type of motivation is described as being created from external rewards?

1. Intrinsic motivation

2. Self-motivation

3. Extrinsic motivation

4. Ambivalent motivation

The correct answer is: Extrinsic motivation

Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to act that is stimulated by external factors, such as rewards or incentives. This type of motivation occurs when individuals engage in an activity not for the inherent satisfaction it may provide, but rather for the rewards that can be gained, like money, praise, or recognition. For example, a student may study hard not out of interest in learning, but to achieve good grades or approval from parents. In contrast, intrinsic motivation stems from internal desires to perform a task for its own sake, out of personal satisfaction or interest, while self-motivation relates to an individual's ability to motivate themselves towards achieving goals. Ambivalent motivation is characterized by mixed feelings or conflicting motivations, making it less straightforward. Understanding these distinctions is vital for recognizing how different motivational forces can influence behavior and performance in various contexts, such as rehabilitation counseling.