Which statement best describes intrinsic motivation?

Which statement best describes intrinsic motivation?

• A. External rewards drive behavior
• B. Internal satisfaction drives behavior
• C. Compliance due to threats
• D. Social praise is primary

Answer: (B)

Intrinsic motivation is when you engage in an activity because it feels rewarding in itself—out of interest, curiosity, or personal satisfaction. The key idea is that the motive comes from inside the person, not from external rewards or pressures. For example, someone might practice a musical instrument or read a book because they genuinely enjoy it, not to earn a grade, money, or praise. External rewards or threats can influence behavior, but they are extrinsic, whereas intrinsic motivation rests on that internal sense of satisfaction. So the statement that internal satisfaction drives behavior best captures what intrinsic motivation is about.

Intrinsic motivation is when you engage in an activity because it feels rewarding in itself—out of interest, curiosity, or personal satisfaction. The key idea is that the motive comes from inside the person, not from external rewards or pressures. For example, someone might practice a musical instrument or read a book because they genuinely enjoy it, not to earn a grade, money, or praise. External rewards or threats can influence behavior, but they are extrinsic, whereas intrinsic motivation rests on that internal sense of satisfaction. So the statement that internal satisfaction drives behavior best captures what intrinsic motivation is about.