FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What type of motivation is described as being driven by external rewards?

1. Intrinsic motivation

2. Extrinsic motivation

3. Social motivation

4. Emotional motivation

The correct answer is: Extrinsic motivation

Extrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity based on the anticipation of external rewards or consequences, such as money, grades, praise, or recognition. This type of motivation often arises when individuals participate in activities not for the enjoyment or satisfaction derived from the task itself, but rather for the benefits that may come from their performance or completion of the task. For example, a student might study hard for an exam not because they find the subject matter interesting, but because they want to earn a good grade or receive a scholarship. The focus here is on the outcome, rather than the intrinsic satisfaction from learning or mastering the material. Intrinsic motivation, on the other hand, comes from within and is driven by the enjoyment or fulfillment gained from the activity itself. Social motivation tends to relate to desires that involve social interactions, such as belonging or acceptance. Emotional motivation involves feelings that drive behavior, such as fear or joy. Thus, extrinsic motivation is specifically tied to external rewards, distinguishing it clearly from these other types.