What is the Locus of Evaluation?
In person-centred counselling, a core concept developed by Carl Rogers is the locus of evaluation. This idea refers to where an individual places the authority for valuing themselves, their experiences, and their choices. Simply put, it’s about whether we look inward or outward to judge our worth and make decisions.
The internal locus of evaluation means that a person primarily relies on their feelings, values, and experiences to determine what’s right for them. They trust their instincts and judge their worth based on their own self-assessments.
On the other hand, the external locus of evaluation is when someone depends on others’ opinions, societal expectations, or cultural norms to assess their value and choices. They may struggle with self-doubt and often seek external approval or validation.
In the context of counselling, this concept is crucial for helping clients understand how their sense of self has been shaped and whether it’s aligned with their authentic identity or heavily influenced by others.
Carl Rogers and the Person-Centred Approach
Carl Rogers, the founder of person-centred therapy, believed that every individual possesses a natural drive towards growth and self-fulfilment, which he referred to as the actualising tendency. However, he recognised that life experiences could disrupt this tendency—particularly when someone feels they must earn love or acceptance by meeting certain conditions. These are known as conditions of worth.
Conditions of worth push people to rely on an external locus of evaluation. For example, if a child only receives praise when achieving high grades, they may grow to believe they are only valuable when they succeed academically. Over time, this can lead to a disconnection from their true feelings and desires as they chase approval rather than self-acceptance.
Rogers’ goal in therapy was to create an environment where clients could reconnect with their internal locus of evaluation and begin to live in alignment with their true selves.
The Role of Counselling in Reconnecting with the Internal Locus
In person-centred counselling, the therapeutic relationship is central. The counsellor provides unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence (genuineness), creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can freely explore their thoughts and emotions.
This environment helps individuals shift from an external to an internal locus of evaluation. Through the therapeutic process, clients are encouraged to identify when they are acting out of obligation or expectation and whether those actions align with their own values.
For example, someone who has spent years in a career chosen to please their family may begin to question whether it truly fulfils them. Therapy allows space to examine these internal conflicts, gain clarity, and rebuild trust in their judgment.
Locus of Evaluation and Self-Worth
One key outcome of reconnecting with an internal locus of evaluation is an improved sense of self-worth. When we rely too heavily on external validation, our self-esteem can fluctuate based on how others perceive us. But when we value our feelings and insights, our sense of self becomes more stable and authentic.
Clients often describe this shift as liberating. They no longer need to meet unrealistic expectations or conform to roles that don’t suit them. Instead, they feel empowered to make choices that are meaningful to them—even if those choices aren’t universally accepted.
Recognising the Signs of an External Locus
It’s not always easy to spot when someone is living according to an external locus of evaluation. Here are some common signs:
- Regularly seeking approval or reassurance from others
- Struggling with decisions unless others agree
- Feeling guilty or anxious when setting boundaries
- Prioritising others’ needs over their own
- Difficulty expressing authentic feelings
While everyone experiences some of these occasionally, a consistent pattern may indicate a strong external orientation worth exploring in therapy.
Building an Internal Locus: A Lifelong Journey
Shifting from an external to an internal locus of evaluation doesn’t happen overnight. It’s often a gradual, lifelong process. Person-centred counselling doesn’t push clients towards change; instead, it offers the conditions that allow change to unfold naturally from within.
Clients begin by learning to notice their feelings without judgment. As they feel safe expressing themselves, they start recognising what is truly important. Over time, this awareness deepens into self-trust—the foundation of an internal locus.
This shift enhances mental well-being and leads to more fulfilling relationships, career choices, and personal development.
Understanding the locus of evaluation is a powerful step towards self-awareness and emotional resilience. Learning to tune into your voice is one of the most healing acts you can undertake in a world full of noise, expectations, and demands.
