US High School Psychology Complete Practice Exam 2026

Question: 1 / 400

What distinguishes intrinsic motivation from extrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation is based on external rewards, while extrinsic motivation is internal

Intrinsic motivation comes from within, while extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards

Intrinsic motivation originates from within an individual, driven by personal satisfaction, interest, or enjoyment in the task itself. For instance, a student who studies a subject because they find it fascinating is intrinsically motivated. On the other hand, extrinsic motivation involves external factors such as rewards, recognition, or the avoidance of punishment. A person motivated by grades, praise from teachers, or financial incentives embodies extrinsic motivation. This distinction emphasizes that intrinsic motivation fosters a deeper engagement with the activity, as it is linked to personal values and interests, while extrinsic motivation can often rely on outside validation or rewards. Understanding this fundamental difference is crucial in psychology as it influences how individuals approach tasks and sustain motivation in various contexts.

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Intrinsic motivation is tied to societal approval, whereas extrinsic motivation is personal

Intrinsic motivation leads to long-term goals, while extrinsic motivation is short-term

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