To motivate someone underachievement, which approach is recommended?

• A. Increase external rewards only
• B. De-emphasize achievement
• C. Reduce feedback
• D. Set goals and build self-efficacy

Answer: (D)

Motivation improves when a learner believes they can succeed and has clear, attainable targets to aim for. Setting goals and building self-efficacy does just that: goals give direction and a sense of progress, while mastery experiences—starting with small, achievable tasks—build confidence in one’s abilities. As self-efficacy grows, effort and persistence increase, and the learner engages more with feedback to refine skills. This approach tends to foster intrinsic motivation because success feels within reach and meaningful.

Relying only on external rewards risks shifting focus away from the task and may not develop the necessary skills or confidence. De-emphasizing achievement lowers motivation, and reducing feedback removes essential information that guides improvement.