How does external motivation differ from extrinsic motivation according to Self-Determination Theory?

• A. External motivation is always less effective than intrinsic motivation
• B. Extrinsic motivation includes external motivation but is a broader term
• C. External motivation is synonymous with intrinsic motivation
• D. Extrinsic motivation refers only to social pressures

Answer: (B)

Extrinsic motivation encompasses a wider range of motivational factors than external motivation does, as outlined in Self-Determination Theory. External motivation specifically refers to instances where individuals engage in a behavior to fulfill a demand, obtain a reward, or avoid a punishment imposed by an external source. This type of motivation is a subset of extrinsic motivation, which includes any motivation that comes from outside of the individual.

Extrinsic motivation also encompasses a variety of regulations, including introjected regulation (where motivation stems from internalized pressures) and identified regulation (where the individual accepts the value of the activity and aligns it with their own goals). Therefore, while all external motivations are extrinsic, not all extrinsic motivations have to be strictly external; they can incorporate some internalized factors as well.

Understanding this distinction is vital as it sheds light on the complexities of human motivation, allowing for a better grasp of how different factors can influence behavior in various contexts. This differentiation also aligns with the broader theoretical framework of Self-Determination Theory, which emphasizes the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in fostering intrinsic motivation.