Locus of control and behavior in treatment groups

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Locus of control (LOC) is a key personality construct.
• Understanding LOC's predictive power in group dynamics is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the Rotter Locus of Control scale's effectiveness in predicting behavior within small, self-directed groups.
• To explore the relationship between locus of control, intelligence, and group interaction dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from 205 male VA Hospital patients in self-directed groups.
• Administered the AGCT, Psychological and Somatic Symptom Scales, and Rotter's I-E scale.
• Measured group behavior using sociometry and a Group Member Evaluation form.

Main Results:

• Internal control beliefs did not predict influencing social environment, information processing, or self-direction.
• External control beliefs correlated with increased somatic/psychological complaints and perceived defensiveness.
• Intelligence showed broader correlations with group process measures than locus of control.

Conclusions:

• The Rotter Locus of Control scale has limited predictive utility for specific behaviors in self-directed groups.
• Locus of control and intelligence appear to influence distinct aspects of group behavior.
• Findings suggest a nuanced understanding of personality's role in group dynamics is necessary.