Ch. 14 Julian Rotter

What was Rotter’s theory?

Locus of Control

Locus of control

Belief that reinforcement is either external or internal

External locus of control

Belief that

reinforcement is

under control of

other people, fate,

or luck

Internal locus of control

Belief that

reinforcement is

brought by one’s

own behavior

Research on

Locus of Control - Age differences

small, inconsistent effects. Adolescence - slight rise. Adulthood - stable

Research on

Locus of Control - Gender Differences

minimal differences, nothing major

Research on

Locus of Control - Cultural Differences

Higher in individualistic,

high-SES cultures

•Lower in resource-scarce

contexts

Research on Locus of

Control - Behavioral & Academic Patterns

better/higher work performance. low internet use problems

Research on Locus of

Control - Mental Health Patterns

•Lower depression and anxiety

•More problem-focused coping

•Less perceived helplessness

Research of Locus of Control - Physical Health Patterns

•More preventive health behaviors

•Better adherence to medical recommendations

•Modestly better overall health indicators

Research of Locus of Control - Developmental Factors

More common among those raised with

autonomy-supportive, warm parenting