Final answer:
Perceived control refers to our sense of having control over our environment. It is associated with various positive outcomes including better health and well-being. Research has shown that greater perceived control is beneficial in managing and coping with stressors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Our sense of having control over our environment, rather than feeling as though the environment is controlling us, is known as perceived control. Perceived control refers to our beliefs about our personal capacity to exert influence over and shape outcomes. Research has shown that greater perceived control is associated with various favorable outcomes, including better physical and mental health, greater psychological well-being, and lower reactivity to stressors. It has also been linked to decreased risk of physical health problems such as declines in physical functioning and heart disease.