Which of the following can negatively affect students' acceptance of external motivators?

Lack of interest can significantly impact a student's acceptance of external motivators. When students are not genuinely engaged with the material or the learning process, they may not respond positively to external incentives such as rewards, praise, or recognition. This disinterest creates a barrier, making them less likely to see the value in these motivators or to feel motivated by them. In educational settings, effective motivation often relies on students being intrinsically interested and invested in their learning, as lack of interest can lead to apathy and disengagement, which in turn diminishes the effectiveness of external incentives.

In contrast, high self-esteem, experience in the subject, and confidence in their abilities are aspects that generally promote a more positive reception to external motivators, as students with these attributes tend to be more open to feedback and encouragement, viewing them as tools for growth rather than as external pressures.