Which statement best reflects internal motivation in adult learning?

Which statement best reflects internal motivation in adult learning?

• A. It is imposed on the client.
• B. It lowers self-esteem.
• C. It increases self-esteem.
• D. It is measured by external rewards.

Answer: (C)

Internal motivation in adult learning is driven by an inner interest, personal meaning, and the satisfaction of mastering new skills. When learning comes from these internal drives, people feel more capable, which tends to boost self-esteem. So the idea that internal motivation increases self-esteem best captures how intrinsic motivation supports confidence and persistence in adults. If motivation is imposed or tied to external rewards, that reflects external motivation rather than internal. Those external cues don’t inherently enhance self-esteem in the same way, and intrinsic motivation is not typically about lowering self-esteem.

Internal motivation in adult learning is driven by an inner interest, personal meaning, and the satisfaction of mastering new skills. When learning comes from these internal drives, people feel more capable, which tends to boost self-esteem. So the idea that internal motivation increases self-esteem best captures how intrinsic motivation supports confidence and persistence in adults. If motivation is imposed or tied to external rewards, that reflects external motivation rather than internal. Those external cues don’t inherently enhance self-esteem in the same way, and intrinsic motivation is not typically about lowering self-esteem.