External locus of control, what is it:
External locus of control is a concept in psychology that refers to the extent to which individuals believe that they can control events that affect them. People with an external locus of control tend to believe that their lives are primarily influenced by external factors, such as luck, fate, chance, or powerful others. In other words, they feel that they have little control over the outcomes of their actions and that external forces play a significant role in shaping their lives.
Individuals with an external locus of control may attribute their successes or failures to luck, destiny, or the actions of others rather than their own abilities or efforts. This belief system can influence various aspects of a person’s behavior, motivation, and decision-making. In contrast, individuals with an internal locus of control believe that they have control over their own lives and that their actions can significantly impact their outcomes.
The concept of locus of control was developed by psychologist Julian B. Rotter in the 1950s, and it has been widely used in research and clinical psychology to understand personality traits and behavior. The degree of internal or external locus of control can influence how individuals cope with challenges, handle stress, and pursue their goals.
Shervan K Shahhian