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Effects of a structured behavior modification treatment program on locus of control in behaviorally disturbed
1Englishton Park Children's Center, Hanover College, IN 47243.
Insights
A 10-day behavior modification program improved locus of control in older children (10-12 years). Younger children with behavioral disorders did not show similar gains in internality.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Children with severe behavioral disorders often face socioeconomic challenges and social deprivation.
- Locus of control, a key psychological construct, influences behavior and outcomes.
- Understanding factors affecting locus of control is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of a 10-day behavior modification treatment on locus of control in children.
- To determine if age influences the effectiveness of the behavior modification program.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 130 children (ages 6-12) with severe behavioral disorders participated.
- Pre- and post-testing utilized the Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale for Children.
- The study assessed changes in internality following a 10-day intervention program.
Main Results:
- Children aged 10-12 demonstrated a significant increase in internality post-treatment.
- Younger children (ages 6-9) did not exhibit significant changes in locus of control.
- The behavior modification program's effectiveness varied by age group.
Conclusions:
- Behavior modification interventions can positively impact locus of control in older children.
- Age is a critical factor in the efficacy of behavior modification for locus of control.
- Further research is needed to explore tailored interventions for younger children.
Abstract:
The effect of a 10-day behavior modification treatment program on locus of control was investigated. The subjects were children (N = 130; 6 to 12 years old) with severe behavioral disorders who were predominantly from low socioeconomic backgrounds, from broken homes, and socially deprived. Pre- and post-testing was done with the Nowicki-Strickland Preschool and Primary Internal-External Control Scale (Nowicki & Duke, 1974) and the Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale for Children (Nowicki & Strickland, 1973). Children between the ages of 10 and 12 responded to therapy with a significant increase in internality, but younger children did not.