Why We Do What We DoBy: Edward L. Deci, Richard Flaste What motivates us as students, employees, and individuals? If you reward your children for doing their homework, they will usually respond by getting it done. But is this the most effective method of motivation? No, says psychologist Edward L. Deci, who challenges traditional thinking and shows that this method actually works against performance. The best way to motivate peopleat school, at work, or at homeis to