Intrinsic motivation is best explained by which theory?

• A. Drive Reduction Theory
• B. Self-Determination Theory
• C. Expectancy-Value Theory
• D. Social Learning Theory

Answer: (B)

Intrinsic motivation arises when you engage in an activity for its own sake—because it’s interesting, enjoyable, or satisfying. Self-Determination Theory explains this by highlighting three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. When you feel you have choice (autonomy), you’re capable and effective (competence), and you feel connected to others (relatedness), your internal drive to pursue the activity increases, and external rewards become less central to your motivation. Drive Reduction Theory focuses on satisfying biological needs and reducing tension, which relies on external states rather than internal enjoyment. Expectancy-Value Theory centers on beliefs about how likely you are to succeed and how much you value the outcome, blending intrinsic and extrinsic factors but not capturing the pure internal pull. Social Learning Theory emphasizes learning from others through observation and reinforcement, which explains how behaviors are shaped but not why someone persists for internal satisfaction. In this light, Self-Determination Theory best accounts for intrinsic motivation.