Resistance to Social Influence - Locus of Control

• What is the definition of Locus of Control (LOC)?

  It refers to the extent to which individuals believe they can control events affecting them.
• What characterizes an Internal Locus of Control?

  Individuals believe events result from their own ability and effort.
• How does an Internal Locus of Control affect resistance to social influence?

  It leads to greater resistance to social influence.
• What is a characteristic of an External Locus of Control?

  Individuals believe events happen due to luck or external factors.
• How does an External Locus of Control influence responsibility for actions?

  It leads to less responsibility for actions.
• What is the impact of an External Locus of Control on feelings in difficult situations?

  Individuals feel powerless in difficult situations.
• What does Rotter’s Locus of Control theory suggest about External LOC?

  Individuals blame external forces and rely on luck or chance.
• What does Rotter’s Locus of Control theory suggest about Internal LOC?

  Individuals believe in self-control and are often leaders with high achievement.
• What are the key findings from Crowne et al (1965) regarding LOC and conformity?

  • Internals conformed less than externals
  • Conducted an Asch-type experiment
• What did Holland find in his replication of Milgram's study regarding LOC?

  • Internals were less likely to obey authority
  • Supports the link between internal LOC and resistance
• What contradictory evidence did Twenge et al (2004) present regarding LOC?

  People are more external but also more resistant to authority.
• What are the correlational issues related to Locus of Control and social influence?

  • Lacks causality; external factors could affect conformity
  • Other variables (e.g., personality) may be involved
  • Weakens the validity of LOC in explaining resistance to social influence