Explaining the “cause” of some behavioral trait is a difficult thing to do. Especially in TEENAGERS, whose demeanors are so elusive and shifty. At one time, these adolescents undertake an activity because they enjoy doing it, at another time, they grudgingly do something because they are forced to do it. The question here is of MOTIVATION and whether it comes from the outside or the inside- EXTRINSIC or INTRINSIC.
The Literary Sphere- Leisure Reading vs School Work:
Books are the same, it is how they are viewed that matters. When seen as “work”, they are to be shirked from. When seen as a gateway to thrilling adventures, they are seen as “play” and thereby, indulged in. TEENAGERS are extrinsically motivated to do their school work- either they want good grades as a reward or they don’t want to get punished. Whereas, when it comes to reading for the pleasure that it entails, these TEENAGERS are intrinsically motivated-doing the thing for its own sake.
Community Work: How can one locate the source of MOTIVATION in this case? Easy! When TEENAGERS look towards the welfare of their society and work for its benefit, they are intrinsically motivated. They enjoy helping everyone around, cleaning the streets, and getting part-time jobs. But when the gleam of prestige and fame guides the teenager’s drive for community work, the MOTIVATION is solely EXTRINSIC in nature.
The Rebellious Teenager and Home Chores:
How many of you parents out there get daily migraines because your teenage son/daughter is a little too spirited and out of your control? See, the rebellious TEENAGERS have this inherent mechanism that tells them to ignore everything their parents say and pursue everything their “self” says. If ever they are extrinsically motivated to wash the dishes or take out garbage, it is either through threats or by bribery. Even if they do like to keep their room clean, they won’t do it just to spurn you.
Apathetic Attitude:
While some TEENAGERS outright rebel, some just don’t care. This category is doubly troublesome. Because no matter which way you take to invigorate and stimulate your teenage son/daughter, no matter which tactic you employ, you’ll be met by a huge block of apathy. If ever they do something substantial, it’ll be intrinsically motivated, coming from inside.
What can Parents and Teachers do?
Teenager MOTIVATION is a tricky business. How can parents and teachers get the adolescents to follow the carrot on the stick while also following their “self”? Can a synthesis of the two motivations take place? Here’s how:
- Verbal Game: Talk to the teenager, and moulding its argument, show it how its own words tell it to do what you want it to do. E.g. “Yes, I understand that you’re into music, but wouldn’t going to Performance Art College refine your passion and land you music contracts?”
- Bargain: Apply conditions and make them promise stuff. E.g. “I’ll give you the permission to go to Comic Con only if you promise to write a long term paper afterwards on your experience there.”
It is simple as it is!
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