The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word SPURRED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
S
P
U
R
R
E
D
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "encouraged" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case encouraged = spurred.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SPURRED mean?
SPURRED verb- To ask, to inquire
- To prod (especially a horse) on the side or flank, with the intent to urge motion or haste, to gig.
- To urge or encourage to action, or to a more vigorous pursuit of an object
- To put spurs on.
- To press forward; to travel in great haste.
- Wearing spurs.
- Furnished with a spur or spurs; having shoots like spurs.
- Affected with spur, or ergot.