Rotter - Locus of Control (theories of healthy living)

Question 1

What is locus of control theory?

Answer 1

internal LOC - “I control my own destiny” - eats 5 a day
external LOC - “External factors control my destiny”

developed by rotter 1966

the multi-dimensional health Locus of Control scale measures three dimensions of health:

• Internality - individual perception of control over health
• Chance - the belief chance influences health
• powerful others - belief in control of health professionals

Question 2

Aim

Answer 2

To investigate the LOC theory

Question 3

Method

Answer 3

review article

Question 4

sample

Answer 4

6 pieces of research into individual perceptions of ability to control outcomes based on reinforcement.

Question 5

results

Answer 5

results consistently showed that participants that thought they had control over the situation were more likely to show behaviours that would enable them to cope with potential threats.

Question 6

Conclusions

Answer 6

the LOC would affect many of our behaviours, not just health behaviours