What is the difference between internal and external locus of control?

The correct answer highlights a fundamental distinction in how individuals perceive control over their lives. An internal locus of control is characterized by the belief that one has the power to influence their own outcomes through their actions, decisions, and abilities. Those with this mindset generally feel responsible for the results they achieve and believe that their efforts can lead to positive changes.

In contrast, an external locus of control describes a perspective where individuals attribute outcomes to external factors such as luck, fate, or the actions of others. This mindset can lead to feelings of helplessness, as individuals may feel that their efforts have little impact on the events in their lives.

This differentiation makes option B accurate because it clearly encapsulates the essence of the concept of locus of control, detailing how an internal locus emphasizes personal agency, while an external locus emphasizes reliance on outside influences. Understanding this concept is crucial in the study of personality because it has implications for motivation, behavior, and psychological health.