Incremental effects of reward on intrinsic interest and creativity: the role of performance pressure

Abstract

A laboratory study and two field studies examined the mediational role of performance pressure in the positive relationship of rewards for superior performance with intrinsic interest and creativity. Study 1 found that performance pressure and perceived self-determination mediated a positive association between performance-reward expectancy and intrinsic job interest among employees working in diverse occupations. Study 2 replicated these findings and showed that performance-reward expectancy was positively related to employees' creativity on the job as mediated by intrinsic job interest. Study 3 found that college students who were promised a reward for high performance exhibited enhanced performance pressure, intrinsic interest, and creativity.