Psychology: Social Learning, Personal Constructs, and Locus of Control

What is the primary motivation according to Kelly's Personal Construct Theory?

To find meaning in life circumstances and use that meaning to predict the future.

How do field-independent and field-dependent individuals differ in social skills?

Field-independent individuals are lower in social skills but better at analyzing complex situations, while field-dependent individuals have stronger social skills.

What metaphor does Kelly use to describe individuals in his Personal Construct Theory?

He likens each person to a scientist who obtains data and devises theories to explain their experiences.

What are the major social learning theorists mentioned?

Rotter, Bandura, and Michele.

What does Rotter's social learning theory emphasize?

Expectancy is determined by beliefs about the likely results of behavior, not just reinforcement or punishment.

What is the difference between internal and external locus of control?

Internal locus of control individuals believe they can influence outcomes, while external locus of control individuals feel that outcomes are determined by external factors.

How does locus of control relate to academic achievement?

Students with a higher internal locus of control tend to score better on tests and complete their degrees more timely.

What health behavior is associated with a higher internal locus of control?

A reduced risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, by age 30.

How do external locus of control individuals typically communicate in marriage conflicts?

They tend to use indirect communication, such as teasing or joking, rather than direct confrontation.

What is self-efficacy according to Bandura's Social Cognitive Learning Theory?

The belief in one's ability to execute a specific course of action to achieve a goal.

What is the relationship between locus of control and marital satisfaction?

Individuals with an internal locus of control are more aware of issues and willing to discuss them, leading to higher marital satisfaction.

What behavior do men with a high external locus of control exhibit towards their spouses?

They tend to respond with more verbal and physical aggression.

What is the role of observational learning in Bandura's theory?

Individuals can learn behaviors by observing others, shaping their goals and self-efficacy.

What are the implications of having a high internal locus of control in terms of responsibility?

Individuals are more likely to take responsibility for their actions and outcomes.

How do individuals with a high external locus of control view responsibility?

They are more sympathetic to extenuating circumstances and less likely to assign responsibility to themselves.

What is the significance of constructs in Kelly's Personal Construct Theory?

Constructs are used to interpret events and exist in polarities, helping individuals make sense of their social world.

What does Bandura's concept of efficacy expectations entail?

It refers to the belief that one's actions can lead to desired outcomes, influencing goal setting and achievement.

How do internal locus of control individuals perform in career decision-making?

They tend to demonstrate enhanced career decision-making skills.

What is a common behavior of external locus of control wives in conflicts?

They may resort to indirect communication, such as teasing, rather than direct confrontation.

What does Kelly's theory suggest about the stability of locus of control?

Rotter proposed that locus of control may not be stable or trait-like, varying based on experiences.