Which locus of control is likely to correlate with increased motivation and initiative?

An internal locus of control is associated with the belief that individuals can influence their own life outcomes through their actions, efforts, and decisions. This mindset fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership over one’s experiences. People with an internal locus of control are more likely to be motivated and take the initiative, as they believe their efforts can lead to success and positive results. This perspective encourages proactive behavior, as individuals see themselves as active participants in shaping their own future, rather than passive victims of external circumstances.

In contrast, individuals with an external locus of control may perceive that their outcomes are largely determined by external forces, such as luck or fate. This belief can lead to lower motivation and a lack of initiative, as they might feel that their efforts have little impact on the results they achieve. The concept of an adaptive locus of control, while potentially beneficial, does not specifically focus on motivation in the same way that an internal locus does. Similarly, a situational locus of control refers to how individuals perceive control in different contexts, but it doesn't inherently imply the ongoing motivation that is characteristic of an internal locus of control.