FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What type of motivation is defined as coming from an internal source?

1. Extrinsic motivation

2. Intrinsic motivation

3. Social motivation

4. Peer motivation

The correct answer is: Intrinsic motivation

Intrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in activities that are personally rewarding or fulfilling because the individual finds them enjoyable or interesting. When motivation originates from within, such as a desire for personal growth, a love for learning, or satisfaction from mastering a skill, it exemplifies intrinsic motivation. This type of motivation encourages individuals to participate in tasks for their own sake rather than for some external reward or obligation. It leads to deeper engagement and persistence in activities, often resulting in more profound learning and enjoyment. Other types of motivation, like extrinsic, social, or peer motivation, involve factors outside the individual. For instance, extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards such as grades, praise, or money, while social and peer motivation focus on the influence of relationships and social networks. Understanding the differences among these types highlights the unique benefits of intrinsic motivation in promoting sustained motivation and interest in learning.