Understanding Health Locus of Control in the General Population
Author Information
Author(s): Otto Christiane, Bischof Gallus, Rumpf Hans-Jürgen, Meyer Christian, Hapke Ulfert, John Ulrich
Primary Institution: University of Göttingen
Hypothesis
The study aims to compare the three-dimensional and four-dimensional constructs of health locus of control (HLOC) in a representative general population sample.
Conclusion
The study found that a four-dimensional model of health locus of control is superior to the traditional three-dimensional model.
Supporting Evidence
- A four-dimensional model of health locus of control was confirmed through cross-validation.
- The study utilized a large representative sample, enhancing the reliability of the findings.
- Results indicated that health-related control beliefs are distinct for formal and informal assistance.
Takeaway
This study shows that how people believe they can control their health is more complex than we thought, with four different areas to consider instead of just three.
Methodology
The study used a standardized German questionnaire to assess health locus of control in a representative adult sample, employing ordinal factor analyses and confirmatory factor analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the exclusion of certain items that did not perform well in the analysis.
Limitations
The standardized German instrument needs modification, and the study's findings may not be generalizable beyond the specific population sampled.
Participant Demographics
Participants were adults aged 18 to 64 from a northern German city, with a response rate of 70.2%.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
0.059-0.065
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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