The term "locus of control" refers to:

The term "locus of control" encompasses the degree to which individuals believe that they have control over the events that affect their lives. The correct choice, which focuses on the perceived relationship between effort and outcome, directly addresses this concept.

Individuals with an internal locus of control typically believe that their efforts and actions significantly influence their outcomes; they tend to take responsibility for their successes and failures. Conversely, those with an external locus of control attribute their outcomes to external factors, such as luck or the actions of others, which can diminish their sense of agency.

This understanding of the term highlights its importance in fields such as psychology and education, where motivation and self-efficacy can play crucial roles in individual achievement. Understanding whether a person operates with an internal or external locus of control can provide insights into their behavior and learning processes, influencing how instructors approach teaching and guiding their students.