Which of the following can diminish intrinsic motivation?

Intrinsic motivation refers to engaging in activities for their inherent satisfaction and enjoyment rather than for some separable consequence. When individuals are intrinsically motivated, they find joy and satisfaction in the activity itself, typically due to personal interest or the challenge it presents.

External rewards can diminish intrinsic motivation because they can lead individuals to focus more on the reward than on the activity itself. When someone receives an external reward, such as money, praise, or recognition for completing a task, they may begin to associate their motivation with the reward rather than the enjoyment of the task. This shift can reduce their intrinsic interest in the activity, making them less likely to engage in it without the prospect of a reward in the future.

On the other hand, increased autonomy, personal interest, and challenging tasks typically enhance intrinsic motivation. Autonomy allows individuals to feel a sense of control and ownership over their actions, fostering deeper engagement. Personal interest in a task naturally drives motivation, while challenging tasks can provide satisfaction and excitement, leading to greater intrinsic motivation as individuals strive to overcome challenges and learn new skills.