Sphere-specific measures of perceived control

Abstract

Proposes that individual differences in perceived control be partitioned into components associated with 3 primary spheres of behavior: (a) personal efficacy (control over the nonsocial environment as in personal achievement), (b) interpersonal control (control over other people in dyads and groups), and (c) sociopolitical control (control over social and political events and institutions). Assessment instruments are presented for measuring perceived control in each of these 3 spheres. Using data from 87 undergraduates, a 3-factor structural model was tested using confirmatory factor analysis, and the results are strongly supportive. The scales have impressive convergent and discriminant validity in relation to other individual difference measures. Evidence from several laboratory and field studies by the author and colleagues (e.g., see record 1981-01340-001) is reviewed to support the predictive validity of the 3 scales. (43 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1983 American Psychological Association.