title: Locus of control and health: a review of the literature.
abstract: Locus of control, an individual difference construct from social learning theory, has shown some promise in predicting and explaining specific health-related behaviors. Research is reviewed on the utility of the locus of control construct in understanding smoking reduction, birth control utilization, weight loss, information-seeking, adherence to medication regimens, and other health or sick-role behaviors. Implications for health educators are presented.
mesh_terms: D001294:Attitude to Health; D001835:Body Weight; D005193:Family Planning Services; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D010349:Patient Compliance; D012803:Sick Role; D012907:Smoking / Q000523:psychology