Tesla crafts imitation dream catchers in her spare time. Her father constantly encourages her to sell them on eBay. When she finally agrees to sell them, she notices that while she still enjoys making the dream catchers, she no longer does it for fun she does it to make money. This is an example of the effect.
A. drive-reduction
B. hierarchical
C. heuristic
D. overjustification
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is: D. overjustification
Explanation:
The scenario described is a classic example of the overjustification effect, a concept from motivational psychology. This effect occurs when an individual’s intrinsic motivation to perform an activity diminishes after they begin receiving an external reward (such as money) for performing the same activity.
Intrinsic motivation refers to engaging in an activity for its own sake, due to personal enjoyment, interest, or satisfaction. Tesla originally made dream catchers simply because she enjoyed it—this was intrinsically motivated behavior. However, once her father encouraged her to sell them on eBay and she began earning money for her craft, an extrinsic motivator (money) was introduced.
When extrinsic rewards are introduced for an activity that is already intrinsically rewarding, individuals may start to attribute their behavior to the reward rather than their own enjoyment. As a result, their original passion or enjoyment can diminish. In Tesla’s case, although she still enjoys making the dream catchers, the primary motivation has shifted from enjoyment to profit, which indicates a reduction in intrinsic motivation—the hallmark of the overjustification effect.
This phenomenon has been observed in multiple psychological studies. For instance, in a well-known study by Lepper, Greene, and Nisbett (1973), children who liked drawing were rewarded with certificates. Later, they drew less for fun when not rewarded, suggesting that the reward undermined their intrinsic interest.
Let’s clarify why the other choices are incorrect:
- A. Drive-reduction theory involves biological needs (like hunger or thirst), not hobby motivation.
- B. Hierarchical theory refers to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, which doesn’t directly explain motivation reduction due to rewards.
- C. Heuristic refers to problem-solving strategies or mental shortcuts, not motivation.
Therefore, Tesla’s situation is best explained by the overjustification effect, where external rewards decrease intrinsic enjoyment.