External Control vs. Internal Control

Attribute	External Control	Internal Control
Origin	Imposed by external factors or entities	Implemented by the individual or organization itself
Source of Authority	Comes from outside sources such as laws, regulations, or policies	Comes from within the individual or organization
Flexibility	Less flexible as it is dictated by external factors	More flexible as it can be tailored to specific needs and goals
Responsibility	Less responsibility as control is external	More responsibility as control is internal

Definition

External control and internal control are two contrasting approaches to managing and regulating behavior within an organization or individual. External control refers to the use of external factors such as rules, regulations, rewards, and punishments to influence behavior. On the other hand, internal control relies on an individual's own sense of responsibility, ethics, and self-discipline to guide their actions.

Attributes of External Control

External control is characterized by the imposition of rules and regulations by an external authority, such as a manager, government agency, or societal norms. This form of control relies on the threat of punishment or the promise of rewards to motivate individuals to comply with the established guidelines. In an organization, external control may manifest in the form of performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, or financial incentives.

• Relies on external authority
• Uses rules and regulations
• Emphasizes rewards and punishments
• May lead to compliance but not commitment
• Can create a sense of fear or resentment

Attributes of Internal Control

Internal control, on the other hand, is based on an individual's intrinsic motivation and personal values. It involves self-regulation, self-discipline, and a strong sense of ethics. Individuals who exhibit internal control are driven by a desire to do the right thing, regardless of external pressures or incentives. This form of control is often associated with higher levels of job satisfaction, engagement, and ethical behavior.

• Relies on intrinsic motivation
• Based on personal values and ethics
• Emphasizes self-regulation and self-discipline
• Leads to commitment and accountability
• Associated with higher job satisfaction and ethical behavior

Comparison

While external control and internal control are two distinct approaches to behavior management, they are not mutually exclusive. In many cases, organizations may utilize a combination of both external and internal control mechanisms to achieve desired outcomes. However, it is important to recognize the differences between the two approaches and their respective impacts on individuals and organizations.

External control may be effective in the short term, as it can provide clear guidelines and consequences for behavior. However, it may also lead to a culture of compliance rather than commitment. Individuals who are motivated primarily by external factors may be less likely to take ownership of their actions or go above and beyond what is required.

On the other hand, internal control fosters a sense of personal responsibility and accountability. Individuals who exhibit internal control are more likely to act in alignment with their values and ethics, even in the absence of external oversight. This can lead to higher levels of trust, collaboration, and innovation within an organization.

Ultimately, the choice between external control and internal control depends on the values, goals, and culture of the organization. While external control may be necessary in certain situations to ensure compliance and consistency, internal control is essential for fostering a culture of trust, empowerment, and ethical behavior.