// Concepts

Locus of Control

AffectsHealth, academics, well-beingDeveloped ByJulian RotterYear Originated1950s

Locus of control, a concept developed by Julian B. Rotter in the 1950s, is a psychological construct describing the extent to which individuals believe they have control over events in their lives. It exists on a continuum from internal to external. A person with an internal locus of control believes their actions directly influence outcomes, attributing success to their own abilities and efforts. Conversely, someone with an external locus of control believes that external factors like fate, luck, or other people dictate their life events. Most people fall somewhere in between these two extremes.

The perception of control significantly impacts various aspects of life, including academic performance, health, and well-being. Individuals with a strong internal locus of control tend to be more proactive about their health, take more responsibility for their actions, and cope better with stress. They are also often more achievement-oriented and satisfied with their work. While an internal locus of control is generally considered desirable, it's important to have a realistic sense of one's circle of influence, as overly internal people lacking competence and opportunity may become neurotic or depressed. Research suggests that while self-efficacy can be improved with practice, locus of control may change naturally with age and can be influenced by parents encouraging independence and associating actions with consequences.

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last updated May 27, 2024

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// Often Mentioned Together

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last updated May 27, 2024

Beyond The Game: Neil Strauss on Trauma, Enmeshment, and the Evolution of Modern Intimacy

The Architecture of Intent: Designing Your Life Beyond Default Desires

The Alpha History Fantasy: Why Men Romanticize a Brutal Past