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Locus of control as a contributing factor in the relation between self-perception and adolescent aggression
Marion T Wallace1, Christopher T Barry, Virgil Zeigler-Hill
1Department of Psychology, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, Mississippi 39406, USA.
Aggressive Behavior
|April 26, 2012
Summary
Locus of control (LOC) moderates adolescent aggression. Low self-esteem correlates with higher aggression in teens with external LOC, but LOC does not affect narcissism-aggression links.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- The link between narcissism and aggression is well-established in adolescents and adults.
- The role of self-esteem in aggression is still debated among researchers.
- Locus of control (LOC) may influence how self-perception relates to aggressive behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if locus of control (LOC) moderates the relationship between self-esteem, narcissism, and aggression in adolescents.
- To explore the interplay between self-perception variables and external factors in adolescent aggression.
Main Methods:
- 174 adolescents (ages 16-19) from a voluntary residential program participated.
- Data collected on self-esteem, narcissism, locus of control, and aggression.
- Statistical analysis used to examine moderation effects.
Main Results:
- Locus of control (LOC) significantly moderated the self-esteem-aggression link.
- Low self-esteem was associated with increased aggression in adolescents with an external LOC.
- LOC did not moderate the relationship between narcissism and aggression.
Conclusions:
- Locus of control is a relevant factor in understanding aggression related to low self-esteem in adolescents.
- Findings suggest that interventions targeting LOC may help mitigate aggression in at-risk youth.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between self-perception, LOC, and adolescent aggression.
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