Unveiling the Real Impact of Incentives and Rewards
Rethinking Motivation: Beyond Tangible Rewards
Rewards are often used to motivate kids – but researchers argue that they might not be as beneficial as we think. Alfie Kohn, author and parenting expert, explains how rewards can harm kids' motivation, causing them to feel anxious, ashamed, and controlled. Instead, experts recommend focusing on building strong relationships, giving kids freedom, and creating positive spaces to foster children's intrinsic motivation.
Here's how to create a more productive and satisfying environment that nurtures this internal drive:
- Intrinsic Motivation
Encourage kids by creating an atmosphere where they feel autonomous, competent, and connected. Allow them to make choices and explain the importance of tasks. This fosters a sense of ownership and self-assurance. A growth mindset philosophy can help kids see challenges as opportunities for growth.
- Sincere Recognition
Sincere praise is more effective than material rewards in many cases. Make sure to use process praise, focusing on effort rather than on persons. Be specific, sincere, and authentic, acknowledging feelings. Avoid empty praise and make sure recognition is a genuine expression of appreciation.
- Empowerment and Trust
Empower kids by giving them autonomy and trust. Offer flexible work arrangements and allow them to choose work methods that fit their style. Delegate responsibilities and give them authority over their work. These proactive steps will increase their motivation and make them feel more valued.
- Career Development Opportunities
Nurture kids' talents and interests by offering opportunities for growth. Encourage them to take on roles that fit their abilities and passions, and consider providing mentorship opportunities for guidance.
- Open Communication
Build a culture of open communication in which kids feel heard and seen. Encourage them to express their ideas, share their thoughts, and ask questions. Providing a safe space for honest discussions will foster mutual respect and understanding.
- Positive Emotional Charges
Create a positive work environment that offers intrinsic rewards, such as a sense of accomplishment and pride. Foster a culture of collaboration and shared success, emphasizing teamwork and interdependence.
By focusing on these alternative approaches, we can create an environment that supports kids' autonomous learning and instills a lifelong love of learning.
- Strong friendships, grown from an atmosphere of mutual respect, autonomy, and competence, can significantly contribute to a child's intrinsic motivation.
- Consistency in setting boundaries and enforcing rules, combined with genuine praise for effort and process, promotes a positive parent-child relationship that encourages respect and equality.
- Incorporating education and self-development opportunities within parent-child relationships, such as mentorship or role assignments that align with the child's interests, supports child development and social skills.
- Empowering children with autonomy over their learning, and trusting them to make choices in their education, can lead to increased motivation and a deeper understanding of the value of learning.
- Encouraging open communication between parents and children, allowing room for their thoughts and feelings to be expressed, fosters a sense of mutual respect and understanding - an essential component in fostering positive parenting.
