Extrinsiska

Extrinsiska is a term used in Swedish-language discourse to denote extrinsic aspects or factors that originate outside of a system, contrasted with intrinsic aspects that are inherent to it. The word derives from extrinsisk (extrinsic) with the adjectival suffix -iska and is applied across disciplines to describe external influences, properties, or motivations.

In psychology, extrinsiska motivation refers to behavior driven by external rewards or pressures, such as money, grades, or social approval. This is commonly discussed in relation to intrinsic motivation, which concerns internal interest or satisfaction. In biology and ecology, extrinsiska factors include environmental conditions, exposure to toxins, or interspecific interactions that affect development, health, or survival. In philosophy and ethics, the concept helps distinguish properties that depend on relations to other things from those that are inherent.

Applications of the concept include research design and education, where distinguishing extrinsiska from intrinsic variables can help control bias and understand how incentives influence learning or performance. In policy and organizational contexts, recognizing extrinsiska influences can inform interventions aimed at behavior change or risk management.

Criticism of the dichotomy notes that the boundary between extrinsic and intrinsic is often fluid and context-dependent. Some factors can function as both, and the impact of extrinsiska incentives may vary with perceived autonomy, relevance, and individual differences.

See also: intrinsic motivation, extrinsic factors, extrinsic motivation theory, cognitive evaluation theory.