Title: Module 5: Mastering Locus of Control
In collaboration with the STI/HIV Prevention Training Center at Johns Hopkins and Lean in Systems & Solutions, this module explores the psychological concept of 'locus of control.' This theory describes the extent to which individuals believe they have power over the events in their lives. A deeper understanding of this concept can significantly impact how we approach challenges and opportunities in healthcare settings and beyond.
This brief (10-15 minute) module is crafted to shed light on what 'locus of control' entails and how it influences your perception of control over life’s events. It’s tailored for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of personal agency and adaptability in both professional and personal spheres.
“Locus of control is defined as a generalized expectation of internal versus external control over outcomes. Those with an internal locus of control typically believe that their own actions determine outcomes, whereas individuals with an external locus of control attribute outcomes to external factors such as luck, chance, fate, or the influence of others” (Rotter, 1966).
Goal: To enable learners to comprehend the locus of control concept and apply this understanding to improve stress response in professional and personal situations.
- Understand the concept of locus of control, including the Circle of Control, Circle of Influence, and Circle of Concern.
- Apply the concept of locus of control in personal and professional settings to enhance stress management.
This module will provide you with a frame to respond to different situations based on your ability to identify what circle of influence you have.
Project/Content Lead:
Alexander Waitt, MS, MSEd, LPC (he/him)
Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Lean In Systems & Solutions
Audrey Collier, BS (she/her)
Project Manager, Lean In Systems & Solutions
Contributors:
Dr. Jamie Hanson, PhD (he/him)
Chief Scientist Officer at Lean In Systems & Solutions
Assistant Professor of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh
Dr. Alison DuBois, PhD, LPC (she/her)
Chief Wellness Officer, Lean In Systems & Solutions
President & CEO at The Mindful Mind, LLC
Nicole Luhanik, MS, LPC (she/her)
Clinical Director, Oasis Mental Health Services
Mercedes Robinson, MA, Ed.m (she/her)
Chief Executive Officer, Tequity In Action
Assistant Director of DEI, Ethical Culture Fieldston School
Salah Kanaan, MSc (he/him)
Chief Technology Officer at Lean In Systems & Solutions
Acknowledgements:
Barbara Wilgus, MSN, CRNP [She/Her/Hers]
Program Administrator, STD/HIV Prevention Training Center at Johns Hopkins; JHU Bayview Medical Center
References:
Nießen, D., Schmidt, I., Groskurth, K., Rammstedt, B., & Lechner, C. M. (2022). The Internal-External Locus of Control Short Scale-4 (IE-4): A comprehensive validation of the English-language adaptation. PloS one, 17(7), e0271289. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0271289
Rotter, J. B. (1966). Generalized expectancies for internal versus external control of reinforcement. Psychological Monographs: General and Applied, 80(1), 1–28. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0092976
Disclosure:
The content experts involved in the creation of this module, including the collaboration between the STI/HIV Prevention Training Center at Johns Hopkins and Lean in Systems & Solutions, have declared that there are no financial relationships or conflicts of interest to disclose. This module is the product of our commitment to providing high-quality, unbiased education and training. Our team has worked diligently to ensure that the content is current, accurate, and developed independently of any commercial interests.