What characterizes intrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation is characterized by the internal drive to engage in an activity for its own sake rather than for some external reward or recognition. This means that an individual finds satisfaction and fulfillment in the act of learning or participating itself, rather than seeking approval, material gain, or competition with others.

When a person is intrinsically motivated, they pursue an activity because it aligns with their personal interests, values, or inherent enjoyment. This kind of motivation is often associated with deeper learning, creativity, and persistence because the individual is genuinely invested in the process. For example, a student who reads a book because they love the story or are curious about the subject matter is experiencing intrinsic motivation.

In contrast, motivation that stems from praise, rewards, or competition pertains to extrinsic motivation, where actions are taken to achieve rewards or avoid negative outcomes. Therefore, the understanding of intrinsic motivation as something that comes from within aligns with how it is defined in educational psychology.