Changes in Locus of Control as a Function of Value Modification

Abstract

In terms of balance theory formulations, and on the basis of previous findings with the IE scale, it was hypothesized that Externals would show an increase in the importance of certain values after being made aware of inconsistencies already existing within the value system (Rokeach effect) significantly more than Internals. Further, it was hypothesized that Internals would change in the opposite direction, though to a lesser degree. The hypotheses were not supported, but instead it was found that those subjects who showed the Rokeach effect also showed a change in their IE score, becoming more External, and that those subjects who changed in the opposite direction became more Internal. The implications of this finding for the Internal-External locus of control construct are discussed.