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A locus of control measure as a teaching demonstration
Terry F Pettijohn1, Terry F Pettijohn, Donald F Sacco
1Mercyhurst College, USA. pettijohn.1@osu.edu
Psychological Reports
|December 14, 2005
Summary
This study compared two locus of control scales in psychology students. Pettijohn's 1992 scale showed similar scores to Rotter's I-E scale but is better suited for classroom demonstration.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Locus of control is a key psychological construct.
- Assessing locus of control is important for understanding individual differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare Rotter's I-E scale and Pettijohn's 1992 locus of control scale.
- To evaluate the reliability and validity of Pettijohn's scale for educational purposes.
Main Methods:
- 268 psychology students participated.
- Students completed both Rotter's I-E scale and Pettijohn's 1992 locus of control scale.
- Scores were analyzed for similarity, reliability, and validity.
Main Results:
- Scores from both locus of control scales were similar.
- Pettijohn's 1992 scale demonstrated adequate reliability and validity for demonstration purposes.
- Rotter's I-E scale also yielded comparable results.
Conclusions:
- Pettijohn's 1992 locus of control scale is a viable tool for classroom demonstrations.
- The study supports the use of both scales in psychological education.
- Further research could explore the nuances of each scale in different populations.
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