Internal vs. External Locus of Control

Internal and external locus of control describe how people perceive the reasons behind their life events. Someone with an internal locus of control believes their actions, decisions, and efforts directly influence outcomes, feeling they have personal power over their success or failure. Conversely, a person with an external locus of control thinks that external forces—such as luck, fate, or other people—largely determine what happens to them. This mindset affects motivation and behavior, with internal locus individuals often more proactive and responsible, while external locus individuals may feel less in control of their circumstances.