Tonya was confused.In order to motivate Sam, one of her employees, she began to pay him for work that she knew he liked to do and for which he was previously not paid.However, she noticed that his overall level of motivation appeared to decrease.The motivation theory that best explains this example is

Question

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Cognitive evaluation theory suggests that extrinsic rewards, such as financial incentives, can actually decrease intrinsic motivation when the rewards are seen as controlling or undermining a person's sense of autonomy and competence. In this scenario, Tonya's decision to pay Sam for work he previously enjoyed doing could be perceived as diminishing his sense of choice and control over that work, leading to a decrease in overall motivation.

Tonya Was Confused