A functional-contextualist account of locus of control: Generalized control expectancies as derived relational responding

Elucidating the Cognitive Mechanisms Underpinning Behavioural Activation

“…Furthermore, longitudinal data indicates that the relationship between perceived control and depressive symptomology may be causal, with evidence that decrements in perceived control precede the manifestation of depression (Bjørkløf et al, 2018;Hamilton & Abramson, 1983;Myles, 2020aMyles, , 2020bTobin & Raymundo, 2010). The concept of perceived control has been extended to 'locus of control', pertaining to a generalised belief system regarding the extent to which individuals perceive they have control over their lives (Lefcourt, 1991;Visdómine-Lozano, 2015). Accordingly, perceived control is not limited to isolated events and instead represents a generalised perception of control over one's life.…”

“…Whilst this may not impact the true contingency between actions and outcomes, it culminates in an elevated perception of control and consequently reduced depressive symptomology ( Bjørkløf et al, 2016 ; Bjørkløf et al, 2018 ; Cheng et al, 2013 ; Crandall et al, 2018 ; Hamilton & Abramson, 1983 ; Kleinberg et al, 2013 ; Myles, 2020a ; Myles, 2020b ; Myles et al, 2020 ; Tobin & Raymundo, 2010 ; Volz et al, 2018 ). Moreover, if this elevated perception of control generalises to other activities, it may serve to perpetuate an increasing sense of empowerment across aspects of the individual’s life ( Lefcourt, 1991 ; Visdómine-Lozano, 2015 ).…”

“…Contemporary approaches in clinical psychology strongly advocate the use of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as an intervention for depression ( Westbrook et al, 2011 ). This involves exploring the relationship between psychological distress and one’s thoughts, behaviours, emotions, and physical sensations, as well as taking action to alter the content of the respective facets in an endeavour to improve wellbeing ( Johnstone & Dallos, 2013 ; Myles & Merlo, 2021 ; Tarrier et al, 2000 ; Westbrook et al, 2011 ). Behavioural Activation (BA) represents a popular intervention for depression and is frequently incorporated into CBT protocols ( Veale, 2008 ); however, despite its popularity and significant empirical support, the cognitive mechanisms underpinning the efficacy of BA remain elusive.…”