Understanding the Overjustification Effect

The Overjustification Effect is a fascinating psychological phenomenon that can affect how we perceive our motivations. At its core, it suggests that when we receive external rewards for activities we already enjoy, our [intrinsic motivation](https://glossary.psywellpath.com/intrinsic-motivation) can actually decrease. Let’s break this down in a simple way.

What is Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation?

• Intrinsic Motivation: This is when you do something because you genuinely enjoy it. For example, painting because it brings you joy.
• Extrinsic Motivation: This involves doing something for external rewards, such as money, praise, or recognition. An example might be painting to win a contest.

How the Overjustification Effect Works

Imagine you love playing chess. You play it often just for the fun of it. Now, suppose someone starts giving you money every time you win a game. Initially, this might sound great! However, over time, you might find that you enjoy playing chess less and less. Why? Because the external reward (money) shifts your focus from the enjoyment of the game to the reward itself. This is the Overjustification Effect in action!

Real-Life Examples

• Children and Rewards: Studies show that when children are rewarded with stickers or toys for coloring, they may lose interest in coloring without those rewards. They start to see it as a chore rather than a fun activity.
• Workplace Motivation: An employee who loves their job might find their passion waning when they receive bonuses based solely on performance. They may begin to feel that they are working just for the bonus, not for the joy of their work.

Steps to Combat the Overjustification Effect

1. Focus on the Joy: Remind yourself why you started an activity in the first place. Keeping that intrinsic motivation alive can help counteract the effects of external rewards.
2. Limit External Rewards: If you notice that external rewards are affecting your enthusiasm, try to reduce them. Instead of getting paid for every task, focus on the satisfaction it brings you.
3. Mix It Up: Engage in activities where you can enjoy them without rewards. Explore hobbies or interests just for fun, without any external validation.
4. Reflect on Your Motivations: Journaling about your experiences can help you understand your motivations better. Ask yourself questions like, “Why do I enjoy this?” or “What do I gain from this activity?”

Types of Activities Affected

• Creative Pursuits: Art, music, and writing can be heavily impacted by the Overjustification Effect. Artists who start to focus on selling their work may find their creativity stifled.
• Sports and Games: Athletes who initially play for fun may lose their passion if they start focusing only on winning trophies or medals.
• Learning: Students who study only for grades may miss the intrinsic value of learning and understanding new concepts.

Understanding the Overjustification Effect can help us navigate our motivations better. By keeping our focus on what we love, we can maintain that intrinsic joy in our activities, whether it's a hobby, work, or learning something new.