Locus of Control

Terri L. Jashinsky & Joshua Scherer

Locus of control refers to an individual's overall beliefs regarding whom or what is in control over events that occur in his or her life. People may attribute their chances of success and failure to either external or internal causes. Development of locus of control likely stems from a combination of family background, culture, and past experiences. People with an internal locus of control may come from families that focus on effort and responsibility. On the other hand, those with an external locus of control may come from backgrounds where there is lack of life control. Since the locus of control construct was first introduced, it has undergone considerable explanation, and several theories about locus of control have arisen. People with an internal locus of control often believe that they are in control of their own destinies and happenings in their lives. People with an internal locus of control likely ...

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