What can be a negative consequence of over-relying on reinforcement?

Over-relying on reinforcement can lead to decreased intrinsic motivation, which refers to the internal drive to engage in an activity for its own sake, rather than for some external reward. When individuals are frequently reinforced for their actions, they may start to focus more on the external rewards rather than the inherent enjoyment or satisfaction of the activity itself. This shift in focus can diminish their personal interest and passion for the task.

As the motivation to participate in the activity shifts from intrinsic to extrinsic, individuals may become dependent on the reinforcement to continue performing the behavior, potentially resulting in disengagement when the reinforcement is not present. Consequently, although reinforcement can be useful in encouraging certain behaviors in the short term, an excessive reliance on it can undermine the development of a deeper, more sustained motivation.