LOCUS OF CONTROL AND ADJUSTMENT IN THE ELDERLY

Abstract

The concept of Primary and Secondary control postulated by Rothbaum et al., (1982) is examined in the context of Singapore among the elderly. It is found that both types of control are effective for adaptation in terms of physical and mental health. Thus, one who can balance between Primary and Secondary control will most probably cope better with ageing problems. This is in line with Weisz's et al., (1984) view that balancing these two controls can lead to "optimum adaptation". In essence, Primary control refers to altering the environment to suit one's own wishes. On the other hand, Secondary control refers to changing the self to suit the environment. 131 elderly subjects participated in the study. It was found that Primary and Secondary control play a role in the general health of the elderly. Also, subjects who have a positive view towards ageing are better in their general health. The established concept of Internal-External control (Rotter, 1966) is included in the study, and it was found that External control correlates negatively with Primary control. Thus, people who are more external will tend to engage less in Primary control. Men and women are found to be different in their control beliefs. Women are more external and secondary when compared to men.