Originally published in 1978, this volume provided a broad survey of the latest research and theory, at the time, concerning the potential detrimental effects of inappropriate uses of tangible rewards to modify behaviour. Overall, this research questions the dominant paradigm within which reinforcers, by definition, have positive effects on performance and subsequent behaviour, and suggests new directions for the study of human motivation. In a series of five original integrative essays, the contributors summarize their own and related research programmes. These theoretical essays are complemented by two introductory chapters, that provide a historical context for this research, and four discussion chapters, that speak to broader issues, including both the implications and limitations of the research presented. At the time, this was the latest information on a most provocative area.

Originally published in 1978, this volume provided a broad survey of the latest research and theory, at the time, concerning the potential detrimental effects of inappropriate uses of tangible rewards to modify behaviour. Overall, this research questions the dominant paradigm within which reinforcers, by definition, have positive effects on performance and subsequent behaviour, and suggests new directions for the study of human motivation. In a series of five original integrative essays, the contributors summarize their own and related research programmes. These theoretical essays are complemented by two introductory chapters, that provide a historical context for this research, and four discussion chapters, that speak to broader issues, including both the implications and limitations of the research presented. At the time, this was the latest information on a most provocative area.

Over the past 30 years, many social psychologists have been critical of the practice of using incentive systems in business, education, and other applied settings. The concern is that money, high grades, prizes, and even praise may be effective in getting people to perform an activity but performance and interest are maintained only so long as the reward keeps coming. Once the reward is withdrawn, the concern is that individuals will enjoy the activity less, perform at a lower level, and spend less time on the task. The claim is that rewards destroy people's intrinsic motivation. Widely accepted, this view has been enormously influential and has led many employers, teachers, and other practitioners to question the use of rewards and incentive systems in applied settings. Contrary to this view, the research by Cameron and Pierce indicates that rewards can be used effectively to enhance interest and performance. The book centers around the debate on rewards and intrinsic motivation. Based on historical, narrative, and meta-analytic reviews, Cameron and Pierce show that, contrary to many claims, rewards do not have pervasive negative effects. Instead, the authors show that careful arrangement of rewards enhances motivation, performance, and interest. The overall goal of the book is to draw together over 30 years of research on rewards, motivation, and performance and to provide practitioners with techniques for designing effective incentive systems.

In understanding human behavior, psychologists have long been interested in what motivates specific actions. Debates have pitted extrinsic motivators (e.g. rewards/punishment) against intrinsic motivation in attempting to determine what best motivates individuals. This book provides a summary view of what research has determined about both extrinsic and intrinsic motivation, and clarifies what questions remain unanswered. Divided into three sections, section I revisits the debate about the effects of extrinsic incentives or constraints on intrinsic motivation and creativity, and identifies theoretical advances in motivational research. Section II focuses on the hidden costs and benefits of different types of achievement goals on motivation and performance. Section III discusses theory and research findings on how extrinsic and intrinsic motivators may work in everyday life and over time. This book is of interest to researchers in psychology, education, and business, as well as to a wider audience interested in promoting optimal motivation and performance.Coverage in this book includes:* Debates and controversies in motivational research* Developmental nature of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation over time* Influences of parents, educators, and employers in facilitating motivation* Effect of achievement goals on learning and performance* The role of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in self-regulation Key Features* Brings together major figures in the fields of motivation, education, and social psychology* Provides a mix of theory, basic and applied research* Presents research conducted both in laboratories and educational settings* Comprehensive chapters provide excellent reviews of previous literature as well as outlines important new directions* Provides different perspectives on controversial debates in a balanced, constructive manner