Exploring Teresa Amabile's famous experiment on creativity in art and the impact of rewards on intrinsic motivation

Summary of 4 experiments proving why rewards can kill passion

Experiment on Creative Freedom – When Rewards Kill Creativity

Experiment 4: Artists and Works – Creative Freedom or Working on Commission?

Professor Teresa Amabile at Harvard University conducted a famous study on creativity in art. She asked 23 painters to submit 20 works each – including:

  • 10 works freely created inspired by personal inspiration
  • 10 works created on client commission

Then, independent art critics were invited to evaluate the works without knowing their origin.

Results: The freely created works were rated as significantly more creative, while the technical skill levels between the two types were almost the same.

“When I paint out of passion, I can work all night without feeling tired. But when painting on commission, I always have to control myself, keeping within limits.” – A painter participating in the study

This is exactly the difference between 'want to do' and 'have to do' – a key factor determining the level of creativity and intrinsic motivation.

🧠 Summary of 4 Experiments – One Common Message

We have explored 4 classic psychological studies, from the Soma cube game, the overjustification effect, the candle problem to free-form artistic creation.

And they all lead to the same conclusion:

  • “If-then” style rewards can kill intrinsic motivation.
  • They reduce curiosity, creativity, and the ability to self-learn.
  • They turn joy into obligation – passion into KPIs – and the process into a burden.
  • In environments requiring creativity, innovation, and flexibility – rewards and punishments are no longer strong enough tools.

What do we need?

  • 🌱 An environment that nurtures intrinsic motivation.
  • 💡 A value system where people are connected with meaning and purpose.
  • 🔓 Space for freedom to experiment, fail, and learn.
  • ❤️ Leadership that builds trust, not just stipulates results.
“Rewards don’t nurture passion – they can kill it.” – Edward Deci “We need more than rewards. We need purpose.” – Daniel H. Pink

In the 21st century – the century of creativity and continuous learning – intrinsic motivation is not just a mental factor, but a core competitive capability for individuals and organizations.

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