Control Fallacies

Control fallacies is an irrational way of thinking characterized by believing that one is “externally controlled” or has “internal control”. Being externally controlled refers to viewing oneself as a powerless victim of fate. Those with this kind of fallacy often blame others, luck, the weather, or other external sources for negativities that happen in their lives. On the other hand, having the fallacy of internal control makes one feel responsible for what others are going through. People with this kind of unrealistic mindset often blame themselves for the mishaps and other negativities which others are experiencing. Control fallacies is one of the most common types of cognitive distortions based on Aaron Beck’s cognitive theory. These different types were developed by David Burns, a student of Beck.