Comparison of the locus of control expectancies of two groups of older adults in relation to participation in higher education /

Abstract

A significant difference in locus of control was found between males and females in the total group of subjects but no significant differences were identified on any of the variables between the participants and non-participants and the locus of control for the two groups although both groups were very internal in their locus of control.

In a sample of 118 older adults, a comparison was made between the 53 subjects who were participating and the 65 subjects who were not participating in a program in higher education for which they could be granted adademic credit. This comparison was made to ascertain the relationship between locus of control as measured by the Rotter I-E Scale and participation in a program in higher education by participation or non-participation, gender, ages 50 to 55 and ages 60 to 70, and educational level.

Locus of control was determined not to be a description of a personality characteristic that was significantly related to participation in higher education; however, implications for program planning are discussed.

A further comparison with another study (Wolk and Kurtz, 1975) also indicated no significant differences between that study group and the participant group in this study.