title: A test of the construct validity of health locus of control: effects on self-reported compliance for hypertensive patients.
abstract: A test of the construct validity of the Health Locus of Control (HLC) scale is presented within the larger framework of Rotter's social learning theory. Self-reported compliance behavior was predicted to relate to the subject's HLC orientation, value toward health, and level of perceived home assistance. In a sample of ambulatory hypertensive patients, a significant two-way interaction effect was calculated between the perceived level of home assistance and the patient's HLC orientation (p = .02). The more internally oriented the patient and the higher the level of perceived home assistance in complying with the prescribed medical regimen, the greater the level of self-reported compliance behavior.
mesh_terms: D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000523:psychology*; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D011581:Psychological Tests / Q000379:methods*; D011594:Psychometrics