Perceived Locus of Control and Beliefs about Astrology

Abstract

Summary The present study was an investigation of the relationship of general and specific IE beliefs to an interest in supernatural phenomena: namely, astrological data. Forty-five male and 88 female college student Ss were administered the Rotter and Levenson IE scales, the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability scale, and a questionnaire assessing belief and knowledge about astrology. External beliefs about chance or fate were positively related to belief and action-taking in astrological activities, while other measures of IE, including the Rotter scale and beliefs about control by Powerful Others, were not related to an interest in astrology. Females were significantly more likely than males to believe in and have knowledge about astrology. Results are interpreted to suggest that externals can be differentiated and identified as to the kinds of efforts they might make to enhance reinforcement.