Intrinsic motivation, a psychological concept introduced by Cambridge University's Richard diameter, refers to behavior that is driven from within an individual rather than by external pressures or rewards. Understanding what falls outside the scope of intrinsic motivation is essential to grasping its true meaning. Let's delve into this topic.
To commence, let's remind ourselves of intrinsic motivation's core principles. This type of motivation originates from the individual's inherent interest or enjoyment in an activity. The key aspect here is that the action and its result are valued for their own sake, rather than as a means to an end, like earning rewards or avoiding punishment.
Internal versus External Motivation
The distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation forms the bedrock of understanding which behaviors exemplify intrinsic motivation
External motivators, such as money, fame, or threat of punishment, drive extrinsic motivation. In contrast, intrinsic motivation is propelled by inherent satisfactions derived from the activity itself, including feeling of accomplishment, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.
Intrinsic Motivation is Voluntary
A key trait of intrinsically motivated behaviors is their voluntary nature. People engage in these activities because they choose to, not because they are obliged to by external forces.
For example, a child drawing a picture may find the activity inherently enjoyable, whereas the same child grudgingly completing a task to avoid a time-out is not intrinsically motivated. The former is driven from within; the latter by external factors.
Intrinsic Motivation and Domain-Specificity
Intrinsic motivation is domain-specific, meaning it varies in strength and composition depending on the activity. For instance, a person might be intrinsically motivated in painting, yet not in solving puzzles.
A chess player might love the game (intrinsic motivation), but detest the hours of practice required (not intrinsically motivated). The absence of intrinsic motivation in every aspect of an activity doesn't negate the presence of it in other aspects. Understanding this nuance is crucial.
Misunderstandings about Intrinsic Motivation
Several common misconceptions exist about what this concept encompasses. Identifying these misconceptions helps us clarify what is not an example of intrinsic motivation.
One widespread misunderstanding is that any activity one enjoys is necessarily driven by intrinsic motivation. However, an activity can be enjoyable due to external rewards without the individual engaging for their own sake.
Enjoyment and Intrinsic Motivation Are Not Synonymous
Enjoyment can stem from various sources. Just because one enjoys an action doesn't automatically mean it's intrinsically motivated. A person might enjoy hiking because it helps them stay physically fit, the reward being external, not intrinsic.
Similarly, pursuing a hobby for the purpose of impressing others, or because it increases one's popularity, suggests external motivations, not intrinsic ones.
Flow and Intrinsic Motivation
Another misconception involves the 'flow' state - being completely absorbed in an activity. A common assumption is that this state, as described by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is synonymous with intrinsic motivation.
However, while flow is often a byproduct of intrinsic motivation, experiencing flow in an activity does not inherently indicate intrinsic motivation, as one can be in a flow state due to external motivators as well. For instance, a person might be absorbed in their task because of a pending reward or threat of punishment, rather than inherent interest.
Ultimately, intrinsic motivation lies in the eye of the beholder, driven by each individual's preferences, passions, and the inherent value they find in various activities. Understanding what isn't intrinsically motivated helps us better grasp the scope of this complex yet compelling psychological phenomenon.