Motivation

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 Shining Star


Motivation

June 16, 2019


Industrial psychologists study job performance, but beyond that, they analyze the criteria and predictors of work behavior. One powerful predictor that deserves closer attention is intrinsic motivation, particularly in relation to individual self-advocacy. Understanding how intrinsic motivation influences self-advocacy allows psychologists to better predict whether individuals will engage in behaviors that promote justice, inclusion, and personal empowerment within organizations.


To explore this relationship, it is important to define both concepts. Intrinsic motivation refers to behaviors driven by internal factors, such as personal values, interests, beliefs, and life experiences. These motivations arise from within the individual rather than from external rewards or pressures. Self-advocacy, on the other hand, consists of actions that allow individuals to speak up for themselves, express their needs, and stand up for what they believe in. Advocating for oneself does not mean complete independence or reliance on others; rather, it requires a balance between autonomy and knowing when to seek support.


Many studies define intrinsically motivated behavior as engaging in an activity for its own sake. People act because the activity itself brings satisfaction and meaning, not because of external rewards or obligations. According to Deci and Ryan (1985), intrinsically motivated individuals act freely, with a sense of choice and personal endorsement. For example, a researcher who pursues knowledge out of curiosity or a child who reads purely for enjoyment is acting from intrinsic motivation. These behaviors represent the core of self-determination, as they originate from the self and align with personal values.


Intrinsic motivation plays a critical role in initiating self-advocacy, particularly in efforts to challenge injustice and inequality. To confront unfair systems or advocate for change, individuals must care deeply about an issue. Internal forces such as moral beliefs, religion, internalized social values, interests, and passions often drive people to speak up. The more intrinsically motivated individuals are, the more likely they are to advocate for themselves and others in the workplace and beyond. This motivation not only supports self-advocacy but also enhances productivity, fulfillment, and goal attainment.


Self-advocacy is one of the most effective ways individuals communicate their values and needs to others. It occurs when people speak or act on their own behalf to improve their quality of life, create personal change, or correct inequality (Concunan-Lahr & Brotherson, as cited in Brown, 1999). According to Stodden (2005), self-advocacy involves articulating one’s needs and making informed decisions about the supports necessary to meet those needs. These definitions highlight why psychologists continue to examine the strength of the relationship between intrinsic motivation and self-advocacy.


Research by Deci and Ryan (2000) demonstrates a positive relationship between intrinsic motivation and self-advocacy. Individuals who are intrinsically motivated are more likely to engage in behaviors that promote self-expression, empowerment, and social change. People often advocate for issues that hold personal meaning, not for personal gain but because they feel a responsibility to act. Through self-education, collaboration, and collective action, self-advocates work together to challenge unjust conditions. While there is no single way to organize or advocate, the power lies in collective decision-making and shared purpose.


Many individuals do not recognize the importance of self-advocacy until they face situations where these skills become essential. When people can articulate their ideas clearly and respectfully, they are better equipped to advocate for fairness without creating conflict in professional environments. Fear of speaking up often prevents individuals from achieving meaningful change. Learning self-advocacy skills fosters confidence, self-determination, and personal satisfaction.


Ultimately, intrinsic motivation and self-advocacy are essential tools for success in both work environments and everyday life. Through experience, education, and opportunity, individuals can develop these skills and use them to promote justice, equality, and personal fulfillment. Everyone has the capacity to advocate—what they need is the intrinsic motivation to believe their voice 

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Great choice—Option 3: resubmitting / republishing your piece fits your work perfectly, especially given your ba

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I hope this message finds you well. My name is Sarah Elgohary, and I am a writer and advocate focusing on disability justice, educational inequality, and social empowerment.


I am writing to inquire about the possibility of publishing a revised article titled “Intrinsic Motivation and Self-Advocacy.” The piece explores the relationship between intrinsic motivation and self-advocacy through the lens of psychology, self-determination theory, and social justice. It highlights how internal values and personal meaning drive individuals to speak up, challenge inequality, and advocate for themselves and others in work and life settings.


The article has been lightly updated for clarity and accessibility and would resonate with readers interested in workplace inclusion, advocacy, education, and empowerment. I believe it aligns well with your platform’s mission of promoting equity and informed dialogue.


I would be happy to share the full piece or make any edits to better suit your audience. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.


Warm regards,

Sarah Elgohary

Writer & Social Justice Advocate


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Sarah Elgohary is a writer, disability rights advocate, and social justice activist. Her work focuses on educational inequality, self-advocacy, disability justice, refugee issues, and human rights. She combines academic research with lived experience to explore how motivation, voice, and empowerment shape individual and collective chang


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