| Popis: |
Intrinsic motivation results from the strong association between an activity (means) and its end goal; it occurs when the means and the ends collide. This chapter details this structural perspective on intrinsic motivation, specifically the means–ends fusion (MEF) model, which was inspired by research on goal systems theory. The authors explore four antecedents of MEF that result in intrinsic motivation: (1) a unique link between means and ends; (2) repeated pairing of means and ends; (3) greater similarity, or perceived fit, between a means and its end; and (4) closer temporal arrival of an end in relation to its means. The authors show that a fusion between means and their ends results in greater intrinsic motivation to pursue the means. They explore consequences of MEF for adherence to work, health, and academic goals, detailing how insights from the MEF model can increase persistence in goal-directed behaviors. The chapter concludes with a discussion of promising future directions inspired by this line of research. |
