
Control beliefs
Control beliefs refer to an individual's perception of their ability to influence or manage events and outcomes in their life. They encompass two main ideas: "internal control," where a person feels they have power through their own actions, and "external control," where they believe external forces or luck determine what happens. These beliefs affect motivation, decision-making, and resilience; those with strong internal control tend to take responsibility and persevere, while those with external control may feel powerless. Understanding control beliefs helps explain how people respond to challenges and their sense of agency in various situations.