Extrinsic motivation can be very effective for a beginner. For example, receiving a 'player of the week' certificate or a medal can provide initial encouragement and make the activity seem more attractive, which helps the beginner to stick with the sport during the difficult early stages of learning. However, a major weakness is that if the external rewards are removed, the beginner might lose interest and stop participating. Furthermore, too much emphasis on winning or rewards can create pressure and anxiety, which could be detrimental to a beginner's enjoyment and long-term development. Therefore, while useful initially, it should be paired with developing intrinsic motivation.
For beginners, the initial stages of learning a sport can be frustrating. Extrinsic rewards (like stickers for young children, or praise from a coach) can provide a tangible reason to keep trying. They offer immediate positive reinforcement. The danger, known as the 'overjustification effect', is that the beginner starts to see the reward as the only reason for playing. If the rewards stop, the motivation may disappear. A good coach will use extrinsic rewards to get a beginner started but will also focus on fostering a love for the game (intrinsic motivation) by making sessions fun and highlighting personal improvement.
Expert