External Locus of Control / of Responsibility

The belief that one’s outcomes are entirely controlled by external forces (e.g., a deity, leaders), rather than by personal agency.

• You were taught that only a deity controls your life events.

• You felt guilty for things you couldn't control because you thought you "let God down."

• You made life decisions based solely on religious leaders’ interpretations.

Potential clinical implications (especially in high control settings)

• Disempowerment and difficulty with self-efficacy.

• Struggles with autonomy and decision-making.

• Confusion over personal responsibility vs. divine will.