Overjustification Effect

Definition

The overjustification effect is a psychological phenomenon where people’s intrinsic motivation (doing something because they enjoy it or find it inherently satisfying) decreases when extrinsic rewards (external incentives like money, prizes, or praise) are introduced. Essentially, if someone is naturally motivated to do an activity for its own sake and then starts receiving external rewards for it, they may feel less interested in the activity itself.

Example

A person loves drawing and spends hours sketching just for fun. Their boss notices their talent and offers to give them a position in the graphic design department for more pay. Initially, they are excited about the opportunity to earn more money, but over time, they start to feel less enjoyment in drawing because they now associate it with earning money rather than their love for art. This shift in motivation -- moving from intrinsic (enjoyment) to extrinsic (earning points) is an example of the overjustification effect.

Why It Matters

The overjustification effect matters because it highlights the potential downsides of relying too heavily on external rewards to motivate behavior. While rewards can be effective in certain situations, they may unintentionally undermine people’s genuine interest or enjoyment in an activity. Understanding this concept is important for educators, managers, and parents who want to encourage long-term engagement and motivation without dampening intrinsic drive. By balancing the use of rewards with opportunities for personal satisfaction, individuals are more likely to remain genuinely interested and committed to their pursuits.