Dimensionality of Rotter's I-E Scale in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Research on Rotter's I-E Scale has shown that the scale does not measure a unidimensional trait. It is also argued that differences in the populations to which this scale is administered affect the factor structure obtained. The present study examines the structure of locus of control when applied to a sample of school-going adolescents in an urban region in Sri Lanka. A two-factor structure consisting of "Fatalism" and "Powerlessness" dimensions supports the claim for multidimensionality of the concept. It also supports Nagelschmidt and Jakob's (1977) argument that there are cultural differences in the way in which societies respond, especially in an East-West context.