Age-Related Differences in Locus of Control Orientation in Three Behavior Domains

Abstract
Age-correlated differences in locus of control (LOC) orientation were examined for 306 persons age 13 to 90 in three areas of activity: intellectual, social, and physical. On the scales measuring LOC for both physical and social situations, persons over 60 scored more external than adults in the 35–50 age range. No age differences were observed in the intellectual domain. Findings seem consistent with the realities regarding changes in ability and opportunity for reinforcement which characterize the elderly. Results appear particularly important given that LOC is strongly related to life adjustment for this age group.