> I am skeptical that putting the locus of control outside of oneself - even if partly or largely true as a description of reality - is a good solution On the

> I am skeptical that putting the locus of control outside of oneself - even if partly or largely true as a description of reality - is a good solution On the contrary, understanding and acknowledging what is outside one's locus of control is a sign of mental health. > the learned helplessness and depression that may be magnified by doing that It's the opposite. The "you can achieve anything if you try hard enough" message common in "positive thinking" clashes with reality. The obvious implication is "it's my fault for not trying hard enough" which is a perfect example of learned helplessness.