Perceived/Perception of Control

Perceived control is believing in our abilities, resources, or opportunities to get positive outcomes or avoid negative ones through our own actions. This perception can be an accurate, if subjective, assessment of our actual power in a situation (studying hard to pass an exam and succeeding). It can refer to general beliefs about life (locus of control) or specific situations (self-efficacy). An example of high perceived control is believing we can manage our symptoms by consistently following a doctor’s advice. A positive perception is associated with better mental and physical health, reduced stress, motivation, and effective coping strategies. While perception of control is a broader, generally adaptive psychological term for a healthy, realistic belief in our personal agency, narcissistic belief is not a realistic perception — but a cognitive distortion that deviates from reality. Also see Illusion of Control