External Locus of Control vs. Internal Locus of Control

Attribute	External Locus of Control	Internal Locus of Control
Belief in personal control	Believes that external factors determine outcomes	Believes that personal actions determine outcomes
Responsibility for success/failure	Blames external factors for failures	Takes personal responsibility for successes and failures
Impact on motivation	May lead to feelings of helplessness and lack of motivation	May lead to increased motivation and sense of control
Adaptability to change	May struggle with adapting to change	May be more adaptable to change

Definition

External locus of control refers to the belief that one's life is primarily influenced by external factors such as luck, fate, or other people. Individuals with an external locus of control tend to attribute their successes or failures to outside forces beyond their control. On the other hand, internal locus of control refers to the belief that one's life is primarily influenced by their own actions and decisions. Individuals with an internal locus of control believe that they have the power to shape their own destiny through their choices and efforts.

Attribution of Success and Failure

Individuals with an external locus of control are more likely to attribute their successes to luck or other external factors. They may believe that their achievements are the result of being in the right place at the right time, rather than their own skills or efforts. On the other hand, individuals with an internal locus of control are more likely to attribute their successes to their own hard work, perseverance, and abilities. They take personal responsibility for their achievements and believe that they have the power to overcome obstacles through their own actions.

Response to Challenges

When faced with challenges or setbacks, individuals with an external locus of control may feel helpless and resigned to their fate. They may believe that there is little they can do to change their circumstances and may give up easily. On the other hand, individuals with an internal locus of control are more likely to see challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. They approach obstacles with a sense of determination and resilience, believing that they have the ability to overcome difficulties through their own efforts.

Emotional Well-being

Research has shown that individuals with an internal locus of control tend to have higher levels of self-esteem and overall well-being compared to those with an external locus of control. This is because individuals with an internal locus of control feel empowered and in control of their lives, leading to a greater sense of confidence and satisfaction. On the other hand, individuals with an external locus of control may experience feelings of helplessness and anxiety, as they believe that their lives are dictated by external forces beyond their control.

Relationships and Interactions

Individuals with an external locus of control may struggle in relationships and social interactions, as they may rely on others to make decisions or take responsibility for their actions. This can lead to feelings of dependency and a lack of autonomy in personal relationships. On the other hand, individuals with an internal locus of control are more likely to take charge of their relationships and communicate assertively. They are able to set boundaries, make decisions, and take responsibility for their actions, leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

Impact on Success and Achievement

Individuals with an internal locus of control are more likely to set goals, work hard, and persist in the face of challenges, leading to greater success and achievement in various areas of their lives. This is because they believe that their efforts will directly impact their outcomes and are willing to put in the necessary work to reach their goals. On the other hand, individuals with an external locus of control may be less motivated to pursue their goals, as they believe that external factors such as luck or fate play a larger role in determining their success.

Development and Change

While locus of control is often considered to be a stable personality trait, it is not set in stone and can be influenced by various factors such as life experiences, socialization, and personal beliefs. Individuals can develop a more internal locus of control through cognitive-behavioral therapy, self-reflection, and taking proactive steps to increase their sense of agency and control. On the other hand, individuals can also shift towards a more external locus of control if they experience repeated failures, setbacks, or a lack of support in their lives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, locus of control plays a significant role in shaping individuals' beliefs, behaviors, and outcomes in life. While both external and internal locus of control have their own set of attributes and implications, it is important to recognize the impact that one's locus of control can have on various aspects of life. By understanding and reflecting on our own locus of control, we can make conscious efforts to cultivate a sense of empowerment, resilience, and personal responsibility in order to lead more fulfilling and successful lives.