What differentiates intrinsic motivation from extrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation are two distinct types of motivation that play key roles in influencing behavior and engagement in tasks. Intrinsic motivation arises from within an individual; it is driven by personal enjoyment, satisfaction, or the inherent value of the activity itself. For example, a person may be intrinsically motivated to read a book because they find the subject matter fascinating and rewarding on a personal level.

In contrast, extrinsic motivation is influenced by external factors, such as rewards, recognition, or the avoidance of punishment. An individual might work hard to earn a bonus or praise from others, which illustrates the external nature of extrinsic motivation.

The distinction in source—internal vs. external—is crucial in understanding how these motivations affect behavior. Studies have shown that intrinsic motivation often leads to greater persistence, deeper learning, and higher levels of creativity because the individual engages in the activity for its own sake rather than for some external reward.