In short
Extrinsic motivation is the drive to do something to earn an outside reward or avoid a penalty, such as points, money, prizes or status. A user who logs a workout to win a discount is extrinsically motivated. Apps often use it to get users to try a behavior for the first time.
Why it matters for apps
Outside rewards are a fast way to get users to act. They work well for first steps and one-off actions, but they need care if you want lasting use.
- Good for starting: Points, currency and prizes help users try a feature or complete onboarding.
- Tie rewards to value: Reward actions that make the product more useful, so the behavior has a reason to continue.
- Avoid the overjustification trap: Rewarding something users already enjoy can make it feel like work.
- Plan the handover: Reduce reliance on rewards over time and shift toward progress and mastery goals.
Most successful apps combine both kinds of motivation: rewards to start a behavior, and real value to keep it going.
Industry examples
Waze awards points for reporting traffic and road hazards, giving drivers a small reason to contribute.
A banking app gives cashback coins for a first card payment that users can spend in a reward store (hypothetical).
Build it with StriveCloud
StriveCloud covers extrinsic rewards with currencies, a shop, raffles, scratchcards and a Wheel of Fortune. Stat triggers grant a reward each time a stat rises by a set amount. Segments let you give new users more rewards than experienced ones.
Want to try this? Explore gamified loyalty
Frequently asked questions
What is extrinsic motivation?
Extrinsic motivation is doing something to earn an outside reward or avoid a penalty, such as points, money, prizes or status.
What are examples of extrinsic motivation in apps?
Common examples are points, virtual currency, cashback, discounts, prizes and leaderboard rankings that users earn for taking specific actions.
Is extrinsic motivation bad?
No. It works well to start new behavior. Problems appear when rewards replace the activity's own value, so pair rewards with real progress and choice.