Which option best represents intrinsic motivation arising from internal goals rather than external rewards?

• A. Extrinsic motivation
• B. Intrinsic motivation
• C. Motivation from fear
• D. Social motivation

Answer: (B)

Intrinsic motivation is doing something for its own sake, driven by internal goals such as curiosity, enjoyment, or a sense of mastery. It arises from inside you rather than from external rewards or pressures. When someone engages in an activity because they find it interesting or meaningful, their motive is intrinsic. This sets it apart from extrinsic motivation, which relies on rewards like grades, praise, or money. It also differs from motivation based on fear, which pushes actions to avoid negative outcomes, and from social motivation, which seeks approval or acceptance from others. Because intrinsic motivation captures this inward, self-endorsed drive, it best represents motivation arising from internal goals rather than external rewards.