Which strategies are used to develop intrinsic motivation?

• A. Punishment and Fear
• B. External Rewards and Bribes
• C. Praise, Recognition, Achievement
• D. Social Comparison and Competition

Answer: (C)

Intrinsic motivation comes from finding the activity itself rewarding, so strategies that boost a person’s sense of competence and personal meaning are most effective. Praise that acknowledges effort, strategy, and progress helps someone feel capable and that their hard work matters for its own sake. Recognition of growth and achievement toward meaningful goals gives a sense of mastery and forward momentum. When these elements are present, the activity becomes rewarding in its own right, supporting sustained internal motivation. In contrast, punishment and fear create anxiety and undermine intrinsic interest, external rewards and bribes shift the focus to the incentive rather than the activity, and social comparison or competition can push people to perform for others’ approval or outshine rivals rather than for personal growth.