Cognitive Evaluation Theory

Definition

Cognitive Evaluation Theory is a theory of motivation that focuses on the effects of external factors, such as rewards and feedback, on intrinsic motivation. It suggests that when individuals perceive these external factors as controlling their behavior, their intrinsic motivation decreases, whereas when they perceive these factors as supportive of their autonomy, their intrinsic motivation is maintained or enhanced.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cognitive Evaluation Theory suggests that external rewards and feedback can undermine an individual's intrinsic motivation by reducing their sense of autonomy and perceived locus of causality.
2. The theory posits that external factors can have either an informational or a controlling aspect, and it is the perceived locus of causality (internal or external) that determines the impact on intrinsic motivation.
3. Cognitive Evaluation Theory emphasizes the importance of providing autonomy-supportive environments and feedback that enhances an individual's sense of competence, as these can help maintain or even increase intrinsic motivation.
4. The theory has been applied in various contexts, including education, work, and sports, to understand how external factors can influence an individual's motivation and performance.
5. Recent research on Cognitive Evaluation Theory has explored the interplay between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, as well as the role of psychological needs, such as autonomy, competence, and relatedness, in shaping motivational processes.

Review Questions

• Explain how Cognitive Evaluation Theory relates to the concept of motivation direction and intensity in the context of 14.1 Motivation: Direction and Intensity.
  • Cognitive Evaluation Theory suggests that external factors, such as rewards and feedback, can have a significant impact on an individual's motivation direction and intensity. When these external factors are perceived as controlling, they can undermine intrinsic motivation, leading to a decrease in the direction and intensity of motivation. Conversely, when external factors are perceived as supportive of autonomy, they can maintain or even enhance intrinsic motivation, resulting in a stronger direction and intensity of motivation. This theory highlights the importance of understanding how contextual factors can shape the direction and intensity of an individual's motivation.
• Describe how Cognitive Evaluation Theory relates to the process theories of motivation discussed in 14.3 Process Theories of Motivation.
  • Cognitive Evaluation Theory is considered a process theory of motivation, as it focuses on the cognitive processes and perceptions that influence an individual's motivation. The theory suggests that the perceived locus of causality, whether internal or external, is a key determinant of the impact of external factors on intrinsic motivation. This aligns with other process theories, such as Expectancy Theory and Goal-Setting Theory, which emphasize the importance of cognitive processes in shaping motivation. Cognitive Evaluation Theory provides insights into how these cognitive processes, specifically the perception of autonomy and competence, can influence the direction and intensity of motivation, as discussed in the context of 14.3 Process Theories of Motivation.
• Analyze how the recent research on Cognitive Evaluation Theory, as discussed in 14.4 Recent Research on Motivation Theories, has contributed to our understanding of the interplay between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
  • Recent research on Cognitive Evaluation Theory, as discussed in 14.4 Recent Research on Motivation Theories, has expanded our understanding of the complex interplay between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The theory suggests that external factors can have differential effects on intrinsic motivation, depending on how they are perceived by the individual. Researchers have explored the conditions under which extrinsic motivators can either undermine or enhance intrinsic motivation, highlighting the importance of autonomy-supportive environments and feedback that fosters a sense of competence. This research has informed the development of interventions and strategies aimed at maintaining or increasing intrinsic motivation, which is crucial for long-term engagement and performance in various contexts, such as education, work, and sports.

Related terms

Intrinsic Motivation: Intrinsic motivation refers to the desire to engage in an activity for its own sake, out of interest or enjoyment, rather than for external rewards or pressures.

Extrinsic Motivation: Extrinsic motivation refers to the desire to engage in an activity in order to obtain a separable outcome, such as a reward or to avoid punishment.

Self-Determination Theory: Self-Determination Theory is a broader theory of motivation that includes Cognitive Evaluation Theory as one of its sub-theories, focusing on the role of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.