Stress and coping: reconceptualizing the role of locus of control beliefs

The purpose of this study was to present a re-conceptualization of the role played by locus of control beliefs in mediating the effects of stressful life events on the psychological well-being of older adults. We hypothesized that elderly persons with extreme internal and extreme external locus of control beliefs are especially vulnerable to the deleterious effects of life stress. Findings from a random community survey of 351 older adults confirmed this hypothesis. We further proposed that extreme internal control beliefs are not entirely detrimental and that these beliefs could lead to the avoidance of certain stressors. This hypothesis also was supported by the data. Based on these findings, researchers are urged to consider more complex models of the coping process.