Intrinsic motivation
Intrinsic motivation is engagement in an activity for its inherent interest or satisfaction rather than for an external reward or pressure.
Self-determination theory: A theory of motivation that distinguishes autonomous from controlled action and identifies basic psychological needs. It explains how autonomy, competence, and relatedness foster intrinsically motivated activity.
Motivation: The processes that initiate, direct, and sustain goal-oriented behavior. Intrinsic motivation is one form within the broader study of motivated action.
Self-determination theory in education: The application of self-determination theory to teaching, learning, and student engagement. Autonomy-supportive teaching can encourage students’ interest and self-directed effort.
Overjustification effect: A decrease in intrinsic motivation that can occur when expected external rewards are given for an already enjoyable activity. It captures the risk that rewards shift the perceived reason for doing an activity.
Cognitive evaluation theory: A theory explaining how social contexts affect intrinsic motivation through perceived autonomy and competence. It details why rewards can either support or undermine intrinsic motivation.
Interest (emotion): A feeling of curiosity and attention toward something perceived as novel, complex, or personally meaningful. Interest is a common immediate experience that draws people into activities.
Job crafting: Changes employees make to their tasks, relationships, or view of work to shape their jobs. Reshaping tasks can make work more engaging and personally meaningful.
Crowding-out effect: A reduction in voluntary or intrinsic motivation caused by external incentives or controls. It describes how incentives can weaken engagement that previously came from within.
Autonomy: The experience of acting with choice and self-endorsement rather than coercion. A sense of choice helps activity feel self-directed and inherently worthwhile.
Psychological needs: Basic conditions whose satisfaction supports psychological growth and well-being. Self-determination theory links need satisfaction to more self-directed engagement.