Bobby's parents want him to stop drawing on the walls. So for a few weeks they pay him to draw on the walls, then stop paying him. Sure enough, when they stop paying, he stops drawing. Which principle did his parents make use of?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Bobby's parents made use of the overjustification effect, which occurs when an individual initially performs a behavior because they find it inherently enjoyable, but then begins to perform the behavior for external rewards (in this case, money). When the rewards are removed, the behavior may decrease or stop altogether.

Bobby's Parents Want Him to Stop Drawing on the Walls