ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the benefits of rewards, the problems with rewards, how to use and not to use rewards appropriately, the role of consequences and punishment in motivation, and the concept of praise. One of the most common ways to motivate kids is to use reward. Parents reward their kids with things, such as money, toys, electronic downloads for music, movies, games, and books, or food treats. Despite their popularity, there are problems with rewards. First, rewards are temporary. Second, rewards can change parents' relationship with their kids. Rewards reduce intrinsic motivation. As J. Reeve points out, there are unintended consequences of rewards, which outweigh the limited benefits: unintentional effects, undermines intrinsic motivation, undermines ownership, and undermines self-regulation. The first step to using rewards effectively is to recognize that they do not have a long-term impact. The most effective use of rewards is when they are a surprise.
