Multidimensional health locus of control in nurses

The importance of health belief and, in particular, health locus of control, in mediating health behaviours and resultant health status is discussed. It is suggested that it is not enough to consider the health beliefs of patients in isolation; the beliefs of health professionals must also be investigated. Health beliefs, conceptualised in terms of multidimensional health locus of control (MHLC) were assessed in a group of nurses working in the North West Regional Health Authority. Measures of 'internal', 'powerful others' and 'chance' health locus of control beliefs were obtained and comparisons with UK norms made. Significant differences in the structure of health locus of control beliefs were found and it was suggested that these differences may have important consequences for both the teaching and practice of nursing.