Application of the Rotter scale of internal‐external locus of control to determine differences between smokers, non‐smokers and ex‐smokers in their general locus of control

Abstract

Application of the Rotter scale of internal-external locus of control to determine differences between smokers, non-smokers and ex-smokers in their general locus of control This paper will relate to empirical research undertaken whilst studying for BA(Hons) in Applied Social Studies by Independent Study. The researchers are both nurses, and colleagues were among the participating subjects. The research took the form of applying the Rotter (1966) scale for internal versus external locus of control to three groups, namely smokers, non-smokers and ex-smokers. Previous studies have indicated that smokers have a more external locus of control than non-smokers. A sample of 60 subjects included 20 in each group (smokers, non-smokers and ex-smokers), of whom a high proportion were nurses and white collar workers within the 25-50 age group.Analysis of the results revealed that there was no significant difference between the scores of the three groups. However, when analysing the scores of nurses only there was a significant difference between smokers and non-smokers. Suggestions will be made as to why this difference in findings lotrrnd of AAvnnced Nursing 19, occurs.

Relationship of Locus of Control to Physical Activity Among People With and Without Diabetes

“…Individuals with an internal LOC may be less likely to smoke (3), more likely to have had a recent pap smear or breast exam (1,8), and less likely to experience a future decline in functional status (9). However, studies have also reported that LOC is not predictive or is only weakly predictive of health behaviors (2,(5)(6)(7).…”

“…T he extent to which an individual perceives life events to be within his or her own control, termed locus of control (LOC), has been examined as a potential correlate of health behaviors (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8). Individuals with an external LOC are more likely to believe that life events are determined by chance, other individuals, or other outside factors, but those with an internal LOC believe they have more control over what happens to them.…”