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Which of the following is an example of positive motivation?

Answer & explanation

Correct answer: option 3

The correct answer is Option (3) → Increase in pay

Option (1) Stopping increments — Incorrect. Stopping increments is a negative means of making a person act in the desired way, so it is negative motivation.

Option (2) Threatening — Incorrect. Threatening is also a negative means of making people act in the desired way.

Option (3) Increase in pay — Correct. Positive motivation gives positive rewards such as an increase in pay, promotion or recognition. An increase in pay is a reward, so it is positive motivation.

Option (4) Punishment — Incorrect. Punishment is a negative means, so it is negative motivation.

NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Features of Motivation: … (iii) Motivation can be either positive or negative. Positive motivation provides positive rewards like increase in pay, promotion, recognition etc., Negative motivation uses negative means like punishment, stopping increments, threatening etc. which also may induce a person to act in the desired way.
(iv) Motivation is a complex process as the individuals are heterogeneous in their expectations, perceptions and reactions. Any type of motivation may not have uniform effect on all the members.”