Rotter & Locus of Control Theory

Question 1

What was the aim of Rotter’s study of LOC?

Answer 1

To investigate LOC theory.

Question 2

Describe the method used by Rotter’s study of LOC.

Answer 2

A review article.

Question 3

Describe the sample used by Rotter’s study of LOC.

Answer 3

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

Question 4

What were the findings of Rotter’s study of LOC?

Answer 4

Rotter found that results from the studies reviewed showed consistently that participants who believed they had control over the situation were more likely to show behaviours that enabled them to cope with potential threats, as opposed to participants who felt that chance or other non-controllable factors determined the effects of their behaviours.

Question 5

What conclusions did Rotter draw from his study of LOC?

Answer 5

Rotter concluded that locus of control theory affected many of our behaviours, not just health behaviours.

He included in his article a summary of research by James et al (1965) which found that male smokers who gave up smoking and did not relapse, had a higher internal locus of control than those who did not quit smoking.

There was not a significant difference for female smokers, showing that other factors such as weight gain were influential in giving up smoking.