Which type of motivation leads individuals to act without seeking external rewards?

Intrinsic motivation refers to the drive to engage in an activity for its own sake, rather than for some external reward. Individuals who are intrinsically motivated find value and satisfaction in the process of the activity itself. This type of motivation often arises from personal interests, enjoyment, or the challenge of mastering a skill.

For example, a student who studies a subject because they are genuinely curious about it or enjoys the learning experience is displaying intrinsic motivation. This internal drive is especially important in educational settings, as it can lead to deeper engagement and persistence in learning.

In contrast, extrinsic motivation is driven by external rewards such as grades or recognition, while social motivation involves the influence of social factors like peer pressure or social acceptance. Situational motivation is temporary, stemming from specific circumstances but not from an inherent interest in the activity.