Which type of motivation is primarily influenced by external factors?

Extrinsic motivation is primarily influenced by external factors, which can include rewards, recognition, and other benefits that come from outside the individual. This type of motivation encourages individuals to engage in activities or behaviors not for their own sake, but to achieve some sort of external reward or to avoid negative consequences. For instance, a student might study hard for exams not because they find joy in learning, but because they want to receive good grades or praise from parents.

In contrast, intrinsic motivation stems from within the individual, driven by personal satisfaction or the inherent enjoyment of the activity itself. Self-determination refers to an individual's ability to make choices and control their own actions, which can encompass both intrinsic and extrinsic elements. Achievement motivation involves striving for success and mastering challenges, which can also draw from both intrinsic and extrinsic sources. However, it is extrinsic motivation that is specifically characterized by its reliance on external factors for driving behavior.