This study examined the relationship between locus of control and two depression measures in a sample of 45 male and 38 female psychiatric inpatients. Correlational analysis showed significant relationships between greater externality and higher depression scores for both depression measures. Also, significant sex differences were identified such that higher magnitude correlation coefficients were found for male patients. No significant relationships were found between locus of control orientation at admission and changes in depression as a function of treatment. Results were discussed in terms of “learned helplessness” models of depression and traditional cultural sex roles.
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