Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation Explained
Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation are central concepts in IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) used to explain why athletes participate in sport and how motivation affects performance and persistence. Understanding the differences between these two types of motivation helps students analyse athlete behaviour and long-term engagement.
IB exam questions frequently ask students to define, compare, and apply intrinsic and extrinsic motivation to sporting contexts.
What Is Intrinsic Motivation?
Intrinsic motivation refers to motivation that comes from within the individual. Athletes participate in sport because they find it enjoyable, satisfying, or personally rewarding.
Characteristics of intrinsic motivation include:
- Enjoyment of the activity
- Desire to improve skills
- Personal satisfaction
- Sense of mastery
Intrinsically motivated athletes participate because they want to, not because they feel pressured or rewarded externally.
Effects of Intrinsic Motivation on Performance
Intrinsic motivation is strongly linked to long-term participation and consistent effort.
Intrinsically motivated athletes tend to:
- Persist through challenges
- Enjoy training
- Maintain long-term involvement in sport
- Develop strong commitment
In IB SEHS, intrinsic motivation is often associated with sustained performance and reduced dropout rates.
What Is Extrinsic Motivation?
Extrinsic motivation comes from external sources rather than internal enjoyment. Athletes participate in sport to gain rewards or avoid negative consequences.
Examples of extrinsic motivation include:
- Trophies and medals
- Praise from coaches or parents
- Financial rewards
- Avoiding punishment or criticism
Extrinsic motivation can be powerful, especially in competitive environments.
Effects of Extrinsic Motivation on Performance
Extrinsic motivation can improve performance, particularly in the short term.
Potential benefits include:
- Increased effort during competition
- Clear performance goals
- Immediate reinforcement
However, overreliance on extrinsic motivation can reduce enjoyment and lead to decreased long-term participation if rewards are removed.
Comparing Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation
The key difference lies in the source of motivation.
Intrinsic motivation:
- Comes from enjoyment and satisfaction
- Encourages long-term participation
Extrinsic motivation:
- Comes from external rewards or pressure
- Often effective in the short term
High-mark IB answers clearly compare both types and recognise that athletes often experience a combination of the two.
Motivation in Sporting Contexts
Different sporting environments emphasise different types of motivation.
Examples include:
- Youth sport focusing on intrinsic enjoyment
- Elite sport using extrinsic rewards
- Training environments balancing both
In IB SEHS, recognising context strengthens applied answers.
Exam Relevance for IB SEHS
Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation questions often require explanation and application. High-mark answers clearly define both types, compare their effects, and apply them to sporting scenarios.
Avoid stating that one type is always better without explanation.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is intrinsic motivation in IB SEHS?
Intrinsic motivation comes from internal enjoyment and personal satisfaction in sport.
What is extrinsic motivation in IB SEHS?
Extrinsic motivation comes from external rewards or pressures, such as trophies or praise.
How are intrinsic and extrinsic motivation tested in IB SEHS exams?
Students are often asked to define, compare, and apply both types of motivation to sporting scenarios.
