Investigating the Relationship between Health Locus of Control and Health Behaviors: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Health locus of control is recognized as a factor affecting the development and promotion of health behaviors. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between health locus of control and health behaviors. Methods: This systematic review was conducted by searching several databases including PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Scopus from early April to early May 2021 using the keywords Health Locus of Control and Health Behaviors. Results: Out of the 1099 articles retrieved after the screening, 18 articles met the criteria for further analysis. A review of the studies showed that those who firmly believed in internal health control were more likely to engage in health behaviors. Conclusion: In line with the findings of this study, it is essential to focus on people's beliefs about the influence of internal factors and increase awareness about people's abilities to promote their health behaviors.