Locus of Control

The locus of control theory explains that the level of control that a person thinks that they have determines the outcome of their life. The locus of control can be internal where they believe that they can control their life or external where they think that the environment or a higher power controls their life and they can do nothing to alter its course. The locus of control shows how people view the world and their roles in determining the outcome of heir life. People who believe in internal locus of control feel more empowered and positive about their life versus people who believe in external control feel helpless and more like a victim.

People who have a strong internal locus of control emphasize achievement, strive for things that will improve their situation, work hard to develop knowledge, skills and abilities, are inquisitive, take note of information they gain from experiences and use it to make positive outcomes in the future, and have a more participant management style. For example if a person was in a car accident a person with an internal locus of control would say that they hit the tree because they were driving too fast and that they should drive more slowly next time. A person that has an external locus of control would say that they hit the tree because God made them swerve off the road and hit the tree and they can’t do anything to change the fact that God wanted to warn them about their sins and He may not be so generous next time.