Developing a behavior plan based on student input is most likely to result in which outcome?

• A. Increasing external motivation via rewards only.
• B. Ignoring student preferences.
• C. Increasing the student's intrinsic motivation to change a pattern of behavior.
• D. Focusing on compliance through punishment.

Answer: (C)

Providing the student a voice in shaping the behavior plan taps into autonomy and relevance, which helps them internalize the reasons for change and take ownership of their progress. When students help choose goals and strategies, they feel connected to the plan, understand why it matters, and can self-regulate their actions, leading to lasting, self-driven changes rather than changes that fade when rewards or punishments are removed. While external rewards or punishments might influence behavior in the short term, they don’t foster the same level of intrinsic motivation. Ignoring student preferences misses a key driver of engagement, and focusing only on compliance through punishment undermines the student’s sense of autonomy and can dampen long-term motivation.