Political detention in South Africa has characteristically involved a process of systematised abuse aimed at breaking down individuals and gaining information from them. The inherent characteristics of detention have been documented as particularly pathogenic and inducing of psychological and psychiatric sequelae. Generalised perceived locus of control has played a mediating role in determining individuals' responses to particular stressors. A specific scale to measure locus of control in the detention-specific context was constructed and validated according to locus of control theory. Results indicated a valid and reliable instrument for determining perceived locus of control in detention. Ascertaining the mediating capacity of this construct in this context and therapeutic implications are discussed.
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