Once a boring task always a boring task? Interest as a self-regulatory mechanism.

Abstract

A process was proposed through which individuals regulate their motivation to perform necessary but uninteresting activities over time. If committed to continuing, individuals may engage in interest-enhancing strategies that can change the activity into something more positive to perform. In Study 1 Ss performed novel tasks and generated strategies to make regular performance interesting. In Study 2 Ss actually used these strategies primarily in conditions indicating a self-regulatory attempt: The task was currently boring, there was a perceived reason to continue (alleged health benefit), and a relevant strategy was available. Strategy use was associated with a change in activity definition and greater likelihood of subsequently performing the activity. In Study 3 Ss beliefs about how to maintain motivation to perform more everyday activities emphasized the importance of regulating interest relative to other self-regulatory strategies.

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3. A Conceptual Framework for Assessing Motivation and Self-Regulated Learning in College Students
   Pintrich, Paul R. · 2004 · Educational Psychology Review
4. Facilitating Internalization: The Self‐Determination Theory Perspective
   Deci, Edward L., Eghrari, Haleh, Patrick, Brian C., Leone, Dean R. · 1994 · Journal of Personality
5. Self-regulation failure: an overview.
   Baumeister, Roy F., Heatherton, Todd F. · 1996 · Psychological Inquiry

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