Someone can have extrinsic or intrinsic motivations for doing something. Intrinsic motivation comes from an internal desire, such as a wish to improve oneself. An extrinsic motivation comes from outside, such as praise from a manager. The word “adscititious” describes an extrinsic force — there are reasons outside of oneself for doing something. It may be pressure from family and friends, cultural influence, or the promise of rewards. “Adscititious” comes from the Latin “ascīscere,” meaning “to get to know, ascertain, vote for, approve.”