Which term describes an internal reward that motivates behavior?

Which term describes an internal reward that motivates behavior?

• A. External rewards
• B. Intrinsic Motivation
• C. A teaching method
• D. A cognitive stage

Answer: (B)

Internal rewards that motivate behavior come from inside the learner, which is intrinsic motivation. When someone is driven by curiosity, enjoyment, or a sense of mastery, they engage in the activity because the process itself is rewarding. This kind of motivation leads to deeper engagement and persistence, even without external prizes or praise. In contrast, external rewards—things like stickers, grades, or incentives—come from outside and influence behavior for those outward payoffs. The other options don’t describe that inner drive: a teaching method is about how instruction is delivered, and a cognitive stage refers to a theory about thinking development. To foster intrinsic motivation in the classroom, provide meaningful, challenging tasks, some choice, and feedback that focuses on growth and mastery.

Internal rewards that motivate behavior come from inside the learner, which is intrinsic motivation. When someone is driven by curiosity, enjoyment, or a sense of mastery, they engage in the activity because the process itself is rewarding. This kind of motivation leads to deeper engagement and persistence, even without external prizes or praise. In contrast, external rewards—things like stickers, grades, or incentives—come from outside and influence behavior for those outward payoffs. The other options don’t describe that inner drive: a teaching method is about how instruction is delivered, and a cognitive stage refers to a theory about thinking development. To foster intrinsic motivation in the classroom, provide meaningful, challenging tasks, some choice, and feedback that focuses on growth and mastery.