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Cognitive and psychosocial differences between I and E locus of control aged persons
Experimental Aging Research
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Elderly individuals with an internal locus of control (LOC) orientation reported better health and psychosocial functioning. However, LOC only reliably predicts limited aspects of cognitive and psychosocial outcomes in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Sociology
Background:
- Locus of Control (LOC) is a psychological construct assessing an individual's perception of control over life events.
- Previous research suggests a link between LOC and psychosocial functioning in older adults.
- Understanding LOC in the elderly is crucial for promoting well-being and independence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between Locus of Control (LOC) orientation and cognitive and psychosocial variables in an elderly population.
- To compare the functioning of elderly individuals with internal LOC versus external LOC.
Main Methods:
- An abbreviated Locus of Control (LOC) Scale was administered to 437 elderly urban residents.
- Participants were divided into internal (below median) and external (at or above median) LOC groups.
- 37 cognitive and psychosocial variables were assessed and compared between the two groups.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were found in 13 variables, favoring individuals with an internal LOC.
- Internal LOC subjects reported better self-rated health, cognitive, and personal-social functioning.
- Multiple regression analysis indicated LOC accounted for only 13% of the variance in functioning.
Conclusions:
- Locus of Control (LOC) is reliably associated with specific aspects of cognitive and psychosocial functioning in the elderly.
- The predictive power of LOC for overall functioning in older adults remains limited.
- Findings align with existing literature on LOC and psychosocial outcomes in aging populations.
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