The effect of extrinsic constraints on children's creativity while using a computer

Abstract

Two studies were conducted to examine the impact of extrinsic constraints on children's performance while using a computer. Open‐ended tasks were presented and possible differential effects of rewards and evaluations imposed by human (experimenter) and non‐human (computer) sources were explored in relation to product creativity, motivation, and affective response. Both studies provide support for the hypothesis that reward and evaluation will undermine creativity and motivation, even when a computer serves as the source of these constraints. In addition, a developmental trend emerged with older children being far more adversely affected than their younger counterparts. The theoretical and applied significance of these results are discussed.