Which motivation type is driven by the anticipation of rewards or punishments?

The motivation type that is driven by the anticipation of rewards or punishments is indeed extrinsic motivation. This form of motivation occurs when an individual engages in an activity not for the inherent satisfaction of the task itself, but rather to achieve a specific outcome, such as earning a reward (like praise, money, or grades) or avoiding a punishment (such as a loss of privileges or negative feedback).

Extrinsic motivation can be particularly effective in scenarios where immediate external rewards foster engagement or quick action. For example, students might study to earn a good grade rather than for the sake of learning itself. This differs significantly from intrinsic motivation, which is when individuals participate in an activity for its own sake due to personal interest or enjoyment. Self-determination refers to the internal drive to make choices and manage one's own life, which is more aligned with intrinsic factors. Task engagement signifies the level of attention and effort a person puts into a task, regardless of whether the motivation is intrinsic or extrinsic. In this context, the characteristic of anticipation of rewards or punishments specifically highlights the essence of extrinsic motivation.