Intrinsic Motivation

What is intrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation is a type of motivation that is driven by personal interest, enjoyment, or satisfaction. It is the desire to engage in an activity for its own sake, rather than for some external reward or incentive.

Intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation

It differs from extrinsic motivation, which concerns a separate outcome and can also be personally valued.

Examples of intrinsic motivation

Someone may play an instrument because they enjoy making music, or solve a puzzle because the challenge is satisfying.

In self-determination theory, autonomy and competence help explain conditions that can support intrinsic motivation. Giving someone a choice does not make an unappealing task enjoyable by itself.

Source: Ryan and Deci (2000).