Intrinsic motivation

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Intrinsic motivation refers to behaviour that is motivated for internal reasons. This also means the absence of extrinsic factors such as external reward or punishment.

Intrinsic motivation means engaging in a behaviour purely because you want to, because it is naturally rewarding, and regardless of external influences.

Hobbies are good examples of intrinsically motivated behaviours.

Intrinsically motivated behaviour feels good and often leads to better outcomes than extrinsically motivated behaviours, particularly for more complex tasks.

## See also

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* Amotivation
* Extrinsic motivation
* Intrinsic motivation (Motivation and emotion book chapters)
* Motivation
* Self-determination theory

## External links

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* Renowned psychologist on how to generate intrinsic motivation - Ed Deci (Inside Quest, YouTube, 37:00 mins)