---
title: "Reciprocal Determinism — AP Psychology Definition & Guide"
description: "Reciprocal determinism is Bandura's idea that traits, behavior, and environment all shape each other in a loop. Core to social cognitive theory in Topic 7.7."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/reciprocal-determinism-theory"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Psychology"
---

# Reciprocal Determinism — AP Psychology Definition & Guide

## Definition

Reciprocal determinism theory, proposed by Albert Bandura, states that personality is shaped by the interaction between an individual's traits, their environment, and their behavior. According to this theory, these three factors influence each other in a continuous reciprocal cycle.

## Review

### Related Terms

- Self-efficacy: Self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to successfully accomplish tasks or goals.
- [Internal Locus of Control](/ap-psych-revised/key-terms/internal-locus-of-control): This term describes when individuals believe they have control over events and outcomes in their lives.
- External Locus of Control: It refers to when individuals believe external forces or luck primarily determine events and outcomes in their lives.