Locus of control, perceived constraint and morale among institutionalized aged

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Social Psychology
• Health Psychology

Background:

• Previous research suggested external locus of control (belief in external forces) benefits institutionalized elderly morale.
• This study investigates the locus of control and life satisfaction relationship in a specific elderly population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between locus of control and life satisfaction among institutionalized elderly women.
• To determine the influence of perceived institutional constraints on life satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Survey research involving fifty-six institutionalized elderly women.
• Assessment of locus of control (internal vs. external) and perception of institutional constraint.
• Correlation analysis to identify relationships between variables.

Main Results:

• Life satisfaction was positively associated with internal locus of control (belief in personal influence).
• Life satisfaction was inversely related to perceived institutional constraint (r = -0.61).
• Perceived institutional constraint emerged as the strongest predictor of life satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Contrary to prior reports, internal locus of control is linked to higher life satisfaction in this group.
• Reducing perceived institutional constraints may enhance life satisfaction for institutionalized elderly individuals.
• Findings highlight the importance of personal agency and environmental factors in elderly well-being.