Difference Between Reward And Award

The Difference Between Reward and Award: Understanding Motivation and Recognition

Understanding the difference between a reward and an award is crucial, not just for personal growth, but also for effective management, parenting, and even self-motivation. While often used interchangeably, these two concepts represent distinct approaches to incentivizing behavior and acknowledging achievement. This article delves into the nuances of rewards and awards, exploring their psychological implications and practical applications in various contexts. We will examine their definitions, explore the key differences, and offer practical examples to solidify your understanding.

What is a Reward?

A reward is something given in exchange for a specific action or behavior. It’s a tangible or intangible benefit offered contingent upon the completion of a task or the demonstration of a desired behavior. The focus is on immediate gratification and incentivizing future performance. Rewards are often used to motivate individuals to perform tasks they might otherwise find unpleasant or challenging. Think of it as a transactional exchange: "Do this, and you'll get that."

Rewards can be:

• Tangible: Money, gifts, extra playtime, food, privileges (e.g., extra screen time).
• Intangible: Praise, positive feedback, recognition, a sense of accomplishment.

The key characteristics of a reward are its immediacy and its direct link to a specific action. The reward is given because a particular behavior occurred. This direct cause-and-effect relationship is fundamental to the concept of a reward.

Examples of Rewards:

• A child receiving a sticker for completing their homework.
• An employee receiving a bonus for exceeding sales targets.
• A dog getting a treat for sitting on command.
• A student getting extra credit for participating actively in class.

What is an Award?

An award, on the other hand, is a form of recognition bestowed upon someone for outstanding achievement or exceptional contribution. It's less about immediate action and more about celebrating past accomplishment. Awards often reflect a higher level of performance, significant effort over time, or exceptional talent. The focus shifts from incentivizing future behavior to acknowledging past excellence. Awards are often more formal and publicly acknowledged than rewards.

Awards can be:

• Tangible: Trophies, medals, certificates, scholarships, promotions.
• Intangible: Public acknowledgment, accolades, prestigious titles, honorary degrees.

The key characteristics of an award are its recognition of past achievement and its often formal and public nature. The award is given because of a significant accomplishment, not to incentivize future behavior, although it may have that secondary effect.

Examples of Awards:

• Receiving an employee of the month award.
• Winning a Nobel Prize.
• Being inducted into the Hall of Fame.
• Earning a Dean's List honor in college.
• Receiving an Oscar for Best Actor.

Key Differences Between Rewards and Awards

The table below summarizes the core distinctions between rewards and awards:

The Psychological Implications

The difference between rewards and awards extends beyond simple semantics. They tap into different psychological mechanisms. Rewards primarily rely on extrinsic motivation, where the driving force is the external reward itself. While effective in the short term, over-reliance on extrinsic rewards can undermine intrinsic motivation – the internal drive to perform a task for its own sake. This can lead to decreased creativity, reduced engagement, and a dependence on external validation.

Awards, on the other hand, tap into intrinsic motivation as well as external validation. While the award itself provides external recognition, it often validates the inherent satisfaction derived from mastering a skill or achieving a goal. This dual aspect of recognition reinforces both internal satisfaction and external validation, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Rewards vs. Awards in Different Contexts

The appropriate use of rewards and awards differs depending on the context:

Parenting: Rewards can be helpful for teaching children basic skills and behaviors, but over-reliance can hinder the development of intrinsic motivation. Awards, such as celebrating a child's accomplishment with a special outing or family celebration, can cultivate a sense of pride and achievement.

Education: Rewards can be effective for motivating students to complete assignments or participate in class. However, it's important to balance this with recognition of effort and achievement through awards that celebrate academic excellence, creativity, or perseverance.

Workplace: Rewards like bonuses or extra time off can be effective motivators for achieving specific targets. However, awards like employee of the month or promotions recognize outstanding contribution and foster a sense of belonging and appreciation, boosting morale and productivity.

Sports: Both rewards (e.g., bonuses, prize money) and awards (e.g., medals, trophies) are integral parts of competitive sports. Rewards incentivize performance, while awards celebrate achievements and build team spirit.

Potential Drawbacks of Over-Reliance on Rewards

While rewards can be effective motivators, over-reliance on them can lead to several negative consequences:

• Undermining Intrinsic Motivation: Individuals may become less interested in the task itself and solely focused on the reward.
• Narrowing Focus: Emphasis on rewards may discourage exploration and creativity as individuals focus on activities that yield the highest reward.
• Creating a Culture of Competition: Excessive use of rewards can foster unhealthy competition and undermine teamwork.
• Dependence on External Validation: Individuals may struggle with self-motivation and self-worth without external rewards.

The Power of Recognition: Awards and Their Impact

Awards, in contrast, often have a more positive and long-lasting impact. They:

• Boost Self-Esteem: Public acknowledgment of achievements strengthens self-confidence and fosters a sense of pride.
• Inspire Future Achievement: The recognition associated with awards can motivate individuals to continue striving for excellence.
• Foster a Sense of Community: Award ceremonies and celebrations build camaraderie and strengthen team bonds.
• Serve as a Legacy: Prestigious awards can become lasting achievements, celebrated long after the event.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can something be both a reward and an award?

A: While rare, it's possible. A significant bonus for exceeding expectations could be considered both a reward (for exceeding the target) and an award (for outstanding performance). The key lies in the intent and emphasis. If the focus is primarily on the immediate action (exceeding the target), it's more of a reward. If the focus is on the overall excellence demonstrated, it leans more towards an award.

Q: What's the best approach – rewards or awards?

A: The optimal approach depends heavily on the context, the individual or group being motivated, and the desired outcome. A balanced approach that combines both rewards and awards is often the most effective. Rewards can incentivize specific actions, while awards recognize broader achievement and contribute to intrinsic motivation.

Q: How can I design effective reward and award systems?

A: When designing reward systems, ensure rewards are relevant, achievable, and timely. For award systems, establish clear criteria for achievement, ensure fairness and transparency in the selection process, and create a meaningful and celebratory acknowledgement event.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach

The distinction between rewards and awards is not simply a semantic difference but a fundamental difference in their psychological impact and practical application. While rewards are effective tools for incentivizing specific actions, over-reliance can be detrimental. Awards, however, recognize achievements, celebrate excellence, and build intrinsic motivation, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment. A balanced approach, carefully integrating both rewards and awards, offers a powerful combination to motivate individuals, foster achievement, and build strong, thriving communities. The key lies in understanding the distinct roles each plays and implementing them strategically to achieve desired outcomes. By understanding these nuances, you can utilize both rewards and awards effectively to achieve personal and professional goals.