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Locus of Control

• Control over outside events is largely internal, within the individual.
• Emphasize the strength of will and determination; circumstances do not have to be accepted as they are.
• There are no limits on what I can do or become, so long as I set my mind to it and make the necessary effort.
• Life is in large part what one makes of it.

Example: Cultures in North America have an internal locus of control.

External Locus of Control:

• Control is considered to be external to the individual.
• Many aspects of life are predetermined, and cannot be controlled.
• There are limits beyond which we cannot go and certain givens that cannot be changed and must be accepted.
• Life happens TO you.

Example: Cultures in the Middle East and South America have an external locus of control.