Behavior undertaken not out of free choice, but as a means to an end is described as what?

The scenario described refers to behavior that is performed not for its own sake but as a means to achieve a certain outcome. This falls under the category of external regulation. External regulation occurs when individuals engage in activities primarily to attain a reward or avoid punishment, demonstrating that their actions are driven by external factors rather than intrinsic motivation.

In the context of sports psychology, understanding how external regulation influences an athlete's behavior can provide insight into their level of motivation and commitment to their training and performance. For instance, an athlete may train hard not necessarily because they love the training itself, but because they want to win a competition or gain approval from a coach or peers.

Identified regulation is characterized by behaviors that are valued and accepted by the individual, leading them to engage in those activities for personal reasons. This would be incorrect in this context since it suggests a level of intrinsic motivation related to personal goals rather than actions taken solely as a means to an end.

Thus, the most appropriate description for behavior undertaken not out of free choice, but as a means to an end, aligns with external regulation, highlighting the influence of external rewards or pressures in motivating the behavior.