Can extrinsic motivation be harmful?

I've heard that extrinsic motivation can sometimes be harmful. Is that true?

Yes, extrinsic motivation can be harmful in certain situations. It may undermine intrinsic motivation and lead to dependency on rewards.

Can you give me an example of how it might undermine intrinsic motivation?

Sure! For instance, if a child is rewarded for reading books, they might start reading only for the reward rather than for enjoyment.

What are some long-term effects of relying on extrinsic motivation?

Long-term reliance on extrinsic motivation can lead to decreased creativity, reduced persistence, and a lack of genuine interest in the activity.

How can I encourage intrinsic motivation instead?

You can encourage intrinsic motivation by fostering a sense of autonomy, providing meaningful choices, and emphasizing the enjoyment of the activity itself.