Question

To answer this question successfully you must:

(1) explain what is meant by locus of control,

(2) what is meant by self-efficacy, and

(3) compare and contrast them.

Answer 1

To explain locus of control and self-efficacy and the relation between them, it is essential to know the difference between them. Once we understand the thin line difference between the concepts it becomes easier to compare and see the contrasting points if any. Locus of control is defined as the belief system of an individual about the causes of success or failure. Locus of control can be internal or external. A person who believes that his efforts and abilities are responsible for his success is said to have internal locus of control. A person with an external locus of control attributes success to fate.

Self-efficacy is defined as person's belief about his or her ability and capacity to accomplish a task and deal with the challenges of life. It is the belief that you can produce a result you want in a specific area.

Self-efficacy is related to locus of control. People with high self-efficacy have internal locus of control. They do not rely on fate or luck to achieve their goal, rather they are believer of their own abilities to succeed.