From External to Internal
Control of Your Life
Index
Information
Advice
Internet Links
Books & Media
CSULB Referrals
Other
INFORMATION
Research has consistently associated autonomy, internal locus of control,
independence, and similar personality dimensions with mental health and many
types of success. Too much external control is one of the most common
problems psychologists see in clients. It is a major underlying problem contributing to
such diverse problems as lack of assertiveness in relationships (and fear of
conflict), chronic anxiety and depression, nonassertiveness,
performance anxiety, addictive behavior patterns, phobias, intimacy and
relationship problems, and dysfunctional family problems.
To the degree that you always
do what your peers or family want, worry about pleasing others, about
being overly influenced by others, or let others manipulate your or run your
life, one of the most basic problems may be lack of internal control.
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ADVICE
If you are too externally controlled,
learning how to get more internal control and become more assertive can give you
much more self-confidence, make you less "needy" and dependent, and
can give you a sense of freedom that you may rarely experience.
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INTERNET
LINKS
Developing
More Internal Control and Assertiveness
CSULB=>
The Transition from External
to Internal Control of Your Life
Has specific information about how to change underlying beliefs and
change habits that can help you become more internally controlled. Chapter
6 of Dr. Tom Stevens' Book, You Can Choose To Be Happy.
http://www.csulb.edu/~tstevens/h6intern.htm
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BOOKS
& MEDIA
GO TO: book_sites.htm
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CSULB
REFERRALS
To be developed later.
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CSULB
Student Services
Counseling and
Psychological Services (CAPS)
CSULB students can obtain free counseling from licensed psychologists for almost
any type of personal problem including relationships and family problems;
stress, anxiety, depression, anger, grief; academic-related concerns; career
decision-making; crises; and almost any type of self-development issue. We
offer individual and group counseling, workshops, and self-help materials
including this web site. Brotman Hall, Room 226; 562-985-4001; web site: www.csulb.edu/~caps
Other student services and
student organizations may also be helpful
Go to CSULB student information page for a comprehensive list of student services and activities
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