What does intrinsic motivation refer to?

Intrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity for its own sake, rather than for some separable consequence. When someone is intrinsically motivated, they find personal satisfaction, enjoyment, or interest in the activity itself. This type of motivation comes from within the individual and reflects a natural inclination towards certain behaviors, such as a passion for learning, creativity, or the pursuit of an enjoyable challenge.

In this context, options that involve external rewards, such as social recognition or financial incentives, do not capture the essence of intrinsic motivation, which is focused on internal satisfaction rather than external validation or rewards. Therefore, the choice that highlights engagement in behavior for personal satisfaction accurately defines intrinsic motivation, as it emphasizes the importance of the internal reward that comes from the activity itself.