Independent behaviourLOCUS OF CONTROL

Learning objectives

To outline what we mean by “locus of control”

To discuss locus of control as an explanation of independent behaviour

To evaluate the locus of control explanation using evidence

Last lesson… We looked at the following explanations of independent behaviour (i.e.

how people resist pressures to conform and obey):- Individuation- Prior commitment- Social support

- Feeling responsible- Disobedient role model- Reactance

Choose one of these and write one sentence on how it explains independent behaviour

Locus of control Is seen as another explanation of independent behaviour – very

important that you know this as you may be asked directly about this explanation as part of your exam.

What does it mean??? “How much a person believes that they have control over

events that happen in their lives” Can have an internal locus of control or an external locus of

control

Complete Rotter’s locus of control scale (pg. 21-22)

How is locus of control related to independent behaviour???

Those who have an internal locus of control are though to show more independent behaviour

This is because they take responsibility for their actions so are less likely to blame others/listen to others

For example, in Milgram’s experiment they take full responsibility for shocking another person rather than just saying they were told to do it. This makes them more likely to refuse to obey.

Application of locus of control to real life situations

Complete the activity on page 23 of your booklets

Evaluation

Read the evidence on page 24 of your booklets and answer the questions

Does research support a link between locus of control and independent behaviour?

Can you think of any methodological problems with the questionnaire used to measure locus of control?

Homework (for Monday back after half term)

Complete assessment task 5 in booklets Ensure your booklet is completely up to date so far!!! (up

to and including page 25) I will be checking these when you get back next term so

no excuses!!!

REMEMBER ONE-TO-ONE PLC MEETINGS NEXT LESSON (THURS 12/2/15)