What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?

• A. Intrinsic motivation is driven by rewards, while extrinsic is internal
• B. Intrinsic motivation arises from external rewards, while extrinsic is internal
• C. Intrinsic motivation comes from internal satisfaction, while extrinsic is based on external rewards
• D. There is no significant difference between the two motivations

Answer: (C)

Intrinsic motivation refers to engaging in an activity for its own sake, driven by internal satisfaction or personal interest. For example, when someone reads a book purely for enjoyment or to learn something new, they are intrinsically motivated. This type of motivation is characterized by a desire for self-fulfillment, mastery, or genuine interest in the task itself.

Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, involves performing an activity to earn external rewards or avoid negative consequences. This can include seeking praise, monetary rewards, or grades, where the motivation lies outside of the individual. For instance, a student who studies hard primarily to get a good grade or win a scholarship is extrinsically motivated.

The distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation is crucial for understanding how different types of incentives affect behavior and engagement in various activities. Acknowledging this difference helps in designing better educational and workplace environments, fostering environments that enhance motivation based on the task or context.