They differ in how fully an externally motivated behaviour has been internalized. Moving from external regulation to integrated regulation, behaviour becomes increasingly autonomous, although it remains extrinsic motivation because it is performed for an outcome beyond the activity itself.
The Self-Determination Continuum
In self-determination theory, extrinsic motivation is divided into regulatory styles according to the athlete’s perceived source of control. The correct term for the least autonomous form is external regulation, not “extrinsic regulation.”
| Regulation | Mechanism and sporting example |
|---|---|
| External regulation | Behaviour is controlled by rewards, punishments, or demands from others. A student trains because their coach will punish them for missing practice. |
| Introjected regulation | External pressures have been partly internalized, but behaviour is driven by guilt, shame, anxiety, or ego enhancement. An athlete trains to avoid feeling guilty or to prove their worth. |
| Identified regulation | The person consciously values the behaviour and accepts its importance. A runner completes strength training because they recognize that it reduces injury risk, even if they do not enjoy it. |
| Integrated regulation | The behaviour has been fully incorporated into the person’s identity and values. An athlete trains because being disciplined and healthy is part of who they are. |
The progression is therefore:
external control → internal pressure → personal importance → identity and values.
Greater internalization generally supports more persistent and self-directed participation. However, integrated regulation is not identical to intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation means participating for the inherent enjoyment or satisfaction of the activity; integrated regulation still serves a separable goal consistent with the person’s identity.
Exam Technique
For an IB SEHS HL comparison, identify the source of motivation, explain the degree of internalization, and apply each regulation to sport or exercise. Avoid the common misconception that introjected regulation is fully self-determined simply because the pressure comes from within; guilt and ego still make it relatively controlled.