Externalists according to Rotter
Characteristics of externalist people
- Externalists according to Rotter think that the “control” or causes of what happens depend fundamentally on factors external to them, such as fate and good or bad luck.
- They tend to consider that their behavior has nothing to do with results or rewards.
- They attribute their failures to others, are more vulnerable to external factors, more conformist and passive.
- They do not seek to control others or make demands on them.
- They avoid assuming responsibilities and decisions, and tend to use defensive strategies to protect themselves.
- They are more pessimistic and sensitive to stress and have more psychological problems, depression and anxiety.
- They take less care of their health, because as everything happens “in spite of them”, they think that it is not worthwhile for them to have medical check-ups or to take better care of themselves.
Among externalists we find less responsible people.
Disadvantages of excessive external control (externalists according to Rotter)
- Blame any failure on others or on fate.
- Greater vulnerability to external factors.
- Conformism and passivity in the face of events and defects: no effort to move forward.
- Absence of control or demand to others in due matters.
- Unwillingness to take responsibility.
- Tendency to avoid decisions, insecurity.
- Poorer mental and physical health due to neglect, more addictions.
- Poor self-esteem and susceptibility.
- Excess of defensive strategies.
Virtues that should be encouraged in externalism according to Rotter:
- Responsibility: wanting to be accountable for one’s own actions, valuing the skills one undoubtedly has.
- Confidence in oneself and in others, face susceptibility with good humor and realism.
- Initiative.
- Optimism.
- Cheerfulness.
- Boldness.