Locus of Control

 

After scoring the Locus of Control worksheet, I was able to interpret that I tend to have an external locus of control. Scoring 13 points on the worksheet, I barely fall into this category. In most personality tests or leadership quizzes, I tend to fall towards the middle range. Here I am, again, feeling divided on where I actually “fall”.

Although the quiz labels me with an external locus of control, I do feel that I am able to balance in these categories. I realize that life will throw some curveballs, while I also realize that my hard work and perseverance will serve me well. I tend to take responsibility for my own actions while realizing that I must face the cards that I have been dealt. Sometimes, I do believe that no matter how hard that I persist, sometimes I will not be able to overcome the circumstances. That may seem negative, but I am learning to be satisfied while striving not to be complacent.

As a future practitioner, I believe that this notion of locus of control is very important. Whether a client has an internal or external locus of control can describe how they might react to a particular situation, diagnoses, or interact with you as a therapist. This may also predict how a client may respond to therapy sessions, or how a client might maintain motivation in therapy. Understanding locus of control should help practitioners when developing treatment plans, completing initial evaluations, and planning for discharge of clients.