BLOG 11:

Paraphrase of:

“An illusion of control is defined as an expectancy of a personal success probability inappropriately higher than the objective probability would warrant” (Langer 316).


According to Langer, some people believe that outcomes of many life events and uncontrollable situations can be externally influenced by them. These individuals identify themselves as being capable to influence life events, such as achievement, happiness or health status without anyone’s approval. He calls this belief as an “illusion of control” (Langer 316).


Langer, Ellen J. “The illusion of control.” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology 32. 2 (1975): 311-328.