Locus of control of reinforcement as a multidimensional, domain-specific construct rather than Rotter's unidimensional generalized expectancy¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The article argues that Rotter's (1966) locus of control of reinforcement, originally "conceptualized by Rotter as a generalized expectancy variable," has been found to be multidimensional and should be defined as several loci of control rather than a single one. The study's canonical analysis supports two underlying constructs — control of one's own destiny versus fate, luck, or chance, and acceptance of responsibility versus powerful others being in control — similar to factors identified in prior analyses of the Rotter I-E scale.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Measurement instruments must be interpreted at the factor level, with factor scores derived from components with eigenvalues equal to or greater than one, as the study's procedure specifies.

Constraints¶

• The two underlying constructs were identified in a single cross-sectional sample of ninth-graders from one Illinois junior high school.

Target Learners¶

• ninth-grade students

Target Learning Objectives¶

• beliefs about personal control of reinforcement in academic achievement and career development situations

Claims¶

Related Theories¶

• Social learning theory expectancy framework (generalized and specific expectancies)

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Thomas, Mollie B. (1975). Underlying Constructs of Locus of Control of Reinforcement. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED108039