ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test 2026 - Free Health Coach Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

Harvey's motivation to lose weight is best described as extrinsic motivation because it is influenced by external factors, specifically his wife and physician. Extrinsic motivation refers to behaviors driven by external rewards or pressures rather than personal desire or internal satisfaction. In this case, Harvey is likely seeking to lose weight not solely for personal reasons but to meet the expectations or desires set by others significant in his life. This external support can be a powerful motivator, helping individuals pursue goals that might be challenging to tackle alone.

While intrinsic motivation comes from within and is driven by personal satisfaction or the joy of achieving a goal, Harvey's situation illustrates that his weight loss goal is shaped primarily by the influence of those around him rather than an internal desire. Additionally, self-motivation focuses on an individual's initiative to change for personal growth or improvement, which may not accurately reflect Harvey's situation if his motivations are primarily external. Familial motivation, while touching on the influence of family, is not a recognized category in motivational theory like intrinsic and extrinsic motivation are. Therefore, the correct choice encapsulates the nature of Harvey's weight loss motivation effectively.