Perceived control of recovery from physical disability: measurement and prediction

Perceived personal control has been found to be predictive of desirable outcomes in a variety of health care settings. It was hypothesized that it would also explain some of the variance in adaptation to and coping with physical disability and would therefore be predictive of recovery. A Recovery Locus of Control scale (RLOC) was developed, independent judges agreeing on five internal and four external items. The scale was shown to have good internal consistency when used with adults recently disabled by a stroke or wrist fracture. Patients' RLOC was assessed at the start of rehabilitation and recovery from physical disability was monitored using measures appropriate for each clinical group. In both groups, greater internality was associated with faster recovery. Results are discussed with respect to the likely mediating factors and the role of health professionals in facilitating internality.