Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Intrinsic motivation occurs when an individual engages in an activity for its own sake, without any external rewards.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The reward is the activity itself. Factors like curiosity, mastery, and joy drive the behavior.
Example: A student reading a book about space simply because they are fascinated by the universe, not because they have a test or are getting a grade. Another example is playing a musical instrument for the personal joy of the sound.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Intrinsic motivation is the internal drive for personal fulfillment; example: reading for pleasure.