The Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy in the Relationship Between Locus of Control and Resilience in Primary School Students.

Abstract

Resilience refers to an enduring and yet fluid characteristic that enhances children's adaptation. It is a dynamic developmental process that is highly promoted by individuals' internal characteristics, such as self-efficacy and locus of control. The present study examined whether self-efficacy mediates the relationship between locus of control and resilience among Greek primary school students. Participants were 690 students aged 9-12 years who were enrolled at primary schools in Greece in Grades 4, 5, and 6. Participants completed a questionnaire including measures assessing resilience, locus of control, and self-efficacy. Structural equation modeling using AMOS 26.0 was used to analyze the data. The results indicated that locus of control and self-efficacy function as significant predictors for all dimensions of resilience, while demographic characteristics such as gender and grade only predict some dimensions of resilience. The hypothesized model was a good fit to the data, and self-efficacy partially mediates the relationship between locus of control and resilience. Psychologists, instructors, and practitioners can develop and apply intervention programs in order to strengthen children's resilience by enhancing their self-efficacy and helping them adopt an internal locus of control.