Definition

Overjustification learning, also known as the overjustification effect, refers to a psychological phenomenon where receiving excessive external rewards or incentives for engaging in an activity diminishes one’s intrinsic motivation to perform that activity.

Explanation

When individuals are naturally inclined to perform an activity because they find it enjoyable, challenging, or personally satisfying, they exhibit intrinsic motivation. This intrinsic motivation can be dampened when external rewards, such as money, prizes, or praise, are introduced.

Effects

The overjustification effect often leads to a decline in the individual’s intrinsic motivation for performing the activity. The person begins to perceive the external reward as the primary reason for engaging in the task, undermining the inherent enjoyment they once experienced.

Additionally, if the external rewards are eventually removed or become less frequent, the individual may become even less motivated to continue participating in the activity.

Furthermore, the overjustification effect can impact the individual’s creativity and innovative thinking related to the activity, as the focus shifts from intrinsic enjoyment to the extrinsic rewards.

Examples

Suppose a child loves drawing and spends hours creating artwork purely for the joy of it. If the child starts receiving monetary rewards for each drawing, their intrinsic motivation to draw might decrease as the focus shifts towards earning money rather than the pleasure of artistic expression.

Similarly, employees who genuinely enjoy their work might lose interest and engagement if their company begins excessively rewarding them for tasks that were once done solely out of pleasure or dedication.

Implications

The implications of overjustification learning are significant, especially in educational, work, and parenting contexts. Overemphasizing external rewards can undermine intrinsic motivation and limit creativity, autonomy, and perseverance in undertaking various endeavors.

However, when used judiciously, external rewards can be effective in motivating individuals to initiate an activity they may feel initially reluctant to undertake. The key lies in balancing intrinsic motivation with appropriate external incentives.