The Effect of Performance-Contingent Monetary Rewards on Creativity, Intrinsic Interest and Autonomy

Date of Award

12-1-2024

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Heather McGee, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Jonathan Baker, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Ron Van Houten, Ph.D.

Fourth Advisor

Douglas Johnson, Ph.D.

Keywords

Autonomy, creativity, intrinsic motivation, monetary incentives, motivation

Abstract

Business owners today seek a workforce capable of producing creative merchandise, services, and ideas. This study investigated the impact of extrinsic rewards, specifically creativity-contingent monetary incentives, on intrinsic motivation and creativity among graphic designers. The research aimed to determine whether such incentives hinder or foster creativity, intrinsic motivation, and a sense of autonomy – an understanding crucial for business leaders cultivating creative work environments. Previous research has yielded mixed findings regarding the effects of monetary rewards on creativity. This study employed a within-subject multiple baseline design. Visual analysis of the resulting graphs indicated that creativity-contingent monetary incentives can enhance creativity without diminishing intrinsic motivation or a sense of autonomy. However, further research is needed to explore potential intervening factors that may hinder the positive effects of monetary rewards on creativity and intrinsic motivation.

Comments

Fifth advisor: Janet Twyman, Ph.D.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Abstract Only

Restricted to Campus until

12-1-2026

This document is currently not available here.

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