locus of control

• this refers to person's perception of personal control over their own behaviour, it is measured along a dimension of 'high internal' to 'high external'
• high internals perceive themselves as having a great deal of personal control over their behaviour and are therefore more likely to take personal responsibility. what happens to a person is seen as a product of their own ability and effort.
• high externals perceive their behaviour as being caused more by externl influences or luck.
• internal take responsibility for their own actions and are less likely to be influenced by others and so more likely to be independent
• high internals are achievements orientated and so more likely to become leaders and therefore be independent
• high internals are likely to have confidence and do not need external approval. As a result, they do not need to conform and less likely to obey.