Final answer:
To discern if behavior is internally or externally caused, one should ask about the locus (internal or external causation), stability (consistent or changeable cause), and controllability (whether the cause can be controlled by the individual) of the behavior's cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine whether behavior is internally or externally caused, one can consider three key questions that help assess the nature of the behavior's causation. These questions revolve around the locus, stability, and controllability of the behavior's cause:
- Locus of causation: This involves questioning whether the cause of behavior is internal, stemming from the individual's personality or traits, or external, resulting from the environment or situation.
- Stability: This addresses whether the cause of the behavior is stable over time or likely to change. Stable causes suggest a consistent pattern, whereas unstable causes suggest a more situational or temporary factor.
- Controllability: This considers the extent to which the individual has control over the cause of the behavior. If the cause is controllable, the individual has the power to change it, while uncontrollable causes lie outside the individual's influence.
By analyzing these aspects, one can better understand the nature of the behavior and suggest strategies to manage or change it, particularly in the context of reducing stress during daily activities.