The Hidden Costs of Reward

This book examines the negative effects of using rewards to modify behavior, challenging traditional views on motivation and performance. The Hidden Costs of Reward presents compelling arguments and research.

Originally published in 1978, The Hidden Costs of Reward offers a comprehensive survey of contemporary research and theories regarding the potential negative impacts of using tangible rewards to influence behavior. This volume challenges the prevailing belief that reinforcers inherently lead to positive outcomes, instead suggesting that inappropriate applications of rewards may have detrimental effects on performance and motivation. Through a collection of five original integrative essays, contributors delve into their own research and related studies, providing a rich exploration of the complexities surrounding human motivation and behavior modification.

The book is structured with two introductory chapters that set the historical context for the research, allowing readers to understand the evolution of thought in this area. Following these introductions, the discussion chapters expand on the broader implications and limitations of the findings presented. The essays not only summarize critical research but also encourage readers to rethink established paradigms regarding reinforcement and its effects on behavior.

At the time of its publication, The Hidden Costs of Reward represented the forefront of knowledge in a provocative field, prompting scholars and practitioners alike to reconsider the role of rewards in motivating behavior. The insights offered in this volume remain relevant, inviting ongoing dialogue about the complexities of human motivation and the ethical considerations of behavioral modification strategies.