Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic

Attribute	Extrinsic	Intrinsic
Definition	External; coming from outside	Internal; inherent
Origin	Derived from external factors	Arises from within oneself
Motivation	Driven by external rewards or consequences	Driven by personal satisfaction or interest
Value	Value is placed on the outcome or result	Value is placed on the process or experience

Definition of Extrinsic and Intrinsic

Extrinsic and intrinsic are two terms that are often used in various contexts to describe different attributes or qualities. Extrinsic refers to something that comes from outside of a person or thing, while intrinsic refers to something that comes from within. In the context of motivation, for example, extrinsic motivation comes from external rewards or punishments, while intrinsic motivation comes from within a person's own desires and values.

Extrinsic Attributes

Extrinsic attributes are those that are external to a person or thing. These attributes are often tangible and can be easily observed or measured. Examples of extrinsic attributes include salary, job title, and recognition from others. Extrinsic attributes are often used as incentives to motivate people to perform certain tasks or achieve specific goals. While extrinsic rewards can be effective in the short term, they may not always lead to long-term satisfaction or motivation.

Intrinsic Attributes

Intrinsic attributes, on the other hand, are those that come from within a person or thing. These attributes are often intangible and may be more difficult to quantify. Examples of intrinsic attributes include a sense of purpose, personal values, and a passion for a particular activity. Intrinsic attributes are often associated with feelings of fulfillment, satisfaction, and motivation that come from doing something that is personally meaningful or enjoyable.

Comparison of Extrinsic and Intrinsic Attributes

While both extrinsic and intrinsic attributes can play a role in motivating people, there are some key differences between the two. Extrinsic attributes are often more easily controlled by external factors, such as employers or authority figures, while intrinsic attributes are more closely tied to a person's own beliefs, values, and interests. Extrinsic attributes may provide short-term motivation, but intrinsic attributes are more likely to lead to long-term satisfaction and fulfillment.

Impact on Behavior

Extrinsic attributes can influence behavior by providing external rewards or punishments for certain actions. For example, a person may work harder at their job in order to receive a bonus or promotion. Intrinsic attributes, on the other hand, can influence behavior by tapping into a person's own desires and values. For example, a person may choose to pursue a career in a field that they are passionate about, even if it means sacrificing other opportunities for external rewards.

Role in Motivation

Extrinsic attributes are often used as incentives to motivate people to achieve specific goals or perform certain tasks. For example, companies may offer bonuses or promotions to employees who meet certain performance targets. Intrinsic attributes, on the other hand, are often associated with a person's own sense of purpose, values, and interests. People who are intrinsically motivated are more likely to pursue activities that they find personally meaningful or enjoyable, regardless of external rewards.

Long-Term Effects

Extrinsic attributes may provide short-term motivation, but they may not always lead to long-term satisfaction or fulfillment. For example, a person who is motivated by a salary increase may eventually become disillusioned if the increase does not lead to greater job satisfaction. Intrinsic attributes, on the other hand, are more likely to lead to long-term satisfaction and fulfillment, as they are tied to a person's own values and interests. People who are intrinsically motivated are more likely to experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, extrinsic and intrinsic attributes play different roles in motivating people and influencing behavior. While extrinsic attributes may provide short-term motivation, intrinsic attributes are more likely to lead to long-term satisfaction and fulfillment. Understanding the differences between extrinsic and intrinsic attributes can help individuals and organizations create environments that foster motivation, satisfaction, and success.