Motivation

Question 1

Define ‘motivation’

Answer 1

The internal mechanism and external stimuli which arouse and direct our behaviour

Question 2

What three things does motivation involve?

Answer 2

• Inner drives towards achieving a goal
• External pressures and rewards we perceive in our environment
• Intensity and direction of our behaviour

Question 3

Give some examples of intrinsic motivation

Answer 3

Personal accomplishment / pride
Winning
Stress relief / wellbeing / fun
Enjoyment

Question 4

Give some examples of extrinsic motivation

Answer 4

Trophies/ tangible rewards
Praise
Recognition
Friendships and social benefits

Question 5

What is drive reduction?

Answer 5

Extrinsic motivation take too much important to the performer so when they have received all the awards and praise early in their career, they are likely to lose motivation and interest, alternatively this could increase their love and dedication for the sport e.g. winning badges for swimming as a child

Question 6

What psychologist discusses the relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?

Answer 6

Weinberg (1984)

Question 7

How does Weinberg explain the relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?

Answer 7

‘Rewards do not inherently undermine intrinsic motivation’

• It is not the extrinsic reward which determines our motivation but the way the performer perceives the reward
• Too much emphasis on winning reduces the satisfaction of the sport unless involved in goal setting
• Too much intrinsic motivation could inhibit a professional carer
• Too much extrinsic pressure may disinterest a performer and quality of their performance
• Extrinsic motivation could encourage intrinsic motivation if the performer felt capable in their abilities