What is the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation refers to engaging in a behavior because it is inherently enjoyable or satisfying, driven by internal factors such as personal interest or the joy of learning. For example, a student who studies psychology because they find the subject fascinating is intrinsically motivated. This form of motivation leads to deeper engagement and persistence over time.

On the other hand, extrinsic motivation involves performing an activity to obtain some external reward or to avoid negative consequences. Rewards can take various forms, such as praise, money, grades, or other incentives. A classic example is a student who studies hard to earn a good grade or to receive approval from parents or teachers—these external factors influence their behavior.

Understanding this distinction is crucial because it reflects how motivation affects learning, performance, and long-term engagement in activities. Motivation that stems from internal desires typically fosters greater satisfaction and perseverance compared to motivation driven by external rewards.