Effects of Self-Directed Behavior-Modification Training on a Measure of Locus of Control

Abstract

One of the latest developments emanating from behavior modification is the application of behavioral principles to one's own behavior. While the learning of behavioral principles to modify simple habits could be of significant benefit, the gain would be of even greater importance if learning to “control” one's own behavior resulted in a generalized attitude of control over the environment. The present experiment examined the hypothesis that self-directed behavior-modification training increases one's feelings of control over the environment as measured by the Locus of Control Scale. The Solomon four-group design was utilized. The Locus of Control Scale was administered to half of the students in a class on self-directed behavior modification and to half of the students in a class on community psychology, at the beginning and the end of the semester and to the remaining half of both classes at the end of the semester. Statistical analysis provided qualified support for the hypothesis. Alternative explanations and interpretation of the results were discussed.