Friday, April 14, 2017

A511.4.3.RB - Locus of Control

Before this week, I had never heard of Internal and External Locus of Control.  After taking the Rotter's Locus of Control Scale Test I have found that I have an internal locus of control.  Which, according to Northouse, pertains to followers who "believe that they are in charge of the events that occur in their life."(2016)



I very much believe that I have control over my life and what happens whether good or bad.  My decisions and actions determine outcomes.  The Path-Goal theory suggests that participative leadership is best for followers with an internal locus of control.  I would somewhat agree with this.  However, I think there are a lot of flaws with the Path-Goal Theory and don't think it's the most effective theory we've discussed so far.  The Situational approach seems more effective and in-line with my leadership.



My internal locus of control affects my leadership behaviors as I think that my actions and decisions affect my life and influence others as well.  First, I am very goal-oriented and have achieved a lot throughout my career.  Before becoming goal-oriented in my life, I was unmotivated and probably displayed an external locus of control.  However, the more goals I set, strived for and achieved allowed me to see my life differently.  For example, about five years ago, I decided to actually write out some SMART goals, one of which was to earn a 90% or higher on my physical fitness test.  Before setting this goal I didn't really care, realize that I could push myself, or make a difference.  After four months of training and running 3-times a week, I scored a 90.2% on my PT test. 



Nowadays, when giving feedback to my subordinates I make sure they create SMART goals and tell them my story.   My achievements show them that I have control over my life and outcomes. Through continuous follow-up, motivation, and encouragement I influence them to reach their goals. 


My internal locus of control also affects how I respond to others' leadership styles.  For example, when peers and supervisors make decisions that I do not agree with or like, I do not let it consume me or impact my decisions.  I realize that I can overcome the situation and see the positive side.  How I react also impacts my Airmen.  I believe that if I had an external locus of control, that attitude would spread throughout the section.  Therefore, I try to keep a positive outlook even in the midst of difficult situations and other leaders decisions. 



Northouse, P. G. (2016). Leadership: Theory and Practice (7th ed). Los Angeles: SAGE



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