What is the difference between an internal and external locus of control?

Julian Rotter's concept of locus of control describes whether people believe outcomes are determined by their own actions or by external forces. People with an internal locus of control believe they control their own fate through effort, skill, and decisions. They tend to be more motivated, achieve higher academically, and cope better with stress. People with an external locus of control believe outcomes are determined by luck, fate, or powerful others. They tend to feel more helpless and less motivated to change their circumstances.