Which statement best contrasts intrinsic motivation with tangible rewards?

Which statement best contrasts intrinsic motivation with tangible rewards?

• A. Intrinsic Motivation Tends to Be Sustained by Internal Factors, Whereas Tangible Rewards Can Sometimes Undermine It
• B. Tangible Rewards Always Improve Motivation
• C. Intrinsic Motivation Only Concerns External Recognition
• D. Tangible Rewards Are Never Effective

Answer: (A)

Intrinsic motivation comes from inside, driven by enjoyment, interest, and a sense of mastery. When someone is motivated this way, they keep engaging in the activity for its own sake, so the motivation tends to last even without external rewards. Tangible rewards are external incentives like prizes or money; they can boost effort initially, but they can undermine intrinsic motivation if the person starts doing the activity for the reward rather than for the activity itself. This is the main contrast: internal factors sustain intrinsic motivation, while external rewards can sometimes reduce it. Rewards aren’t always harmful—they can be helpful if used to support autonomy and provide feedback—but the best description of the contrast emphasizes internal drivers versus possible external undermining.

Intrinsic motivation comes from inside, driven by enjoyment, interest, and a sense of mastery. When someone is motivated this way, they keep engaging in the activity for its own sake, so the motivation tends to last even without external rewards. Tangible rewards are external incentives like prizes or money; they can boost effort initially, but they can undermine intrinsic motivation if the person starts doing the activity for the reward rather than for the activity itself. This is the main contrast: internal factors sustain intrinsic motivation, while external rewards can sometimes reduce it. Rewards aren’t always harmful—they can be helpful if used to support autonomy and provide feedback—but the best description of the contrast emphasizes internal drivers versus possible external undermining.