Psychological Correlates of Locus of Control: Gender and Religion Among Diverse Populations

This study examined the locus of control (LOC) orientations internal, chance, and powerful others among 142 university students from diverse cultural backgrounds found in Gujarat state. The sample was equally divided by gender (male and female) and religious affiliation (Christian and Muslim). A 2×2 factorial design was employed, and a factorial ANOVA was used to analyze the main and interaction effects of gender and religion on LOC dimensions. The findings revealed a dominant internal LOC orientation, with 127 participants attributing life events to personal effort and control. External and chance LOC orientations were less prevalent, with only 4 and 6 participants endorsing these, respectively. Male participants in the Islamic group showed slightly more diversity, with small overlaps in LOC combinations, such as Int + Ext (1), Int + Chance (2), and Ext + Chance (2). However, ANOVA results showed no statistically significant differences in LOC based on gender, religion, or their interaction. These findings suggest that cultural and religious contexts influence LOC perceptions but may not lead to significant variability in diverse populations. The study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive interventions to enhance a person’s resilience and well-being. Future research should investigate additional demographic factors, such as age and educational background, to explore the broader implications of LOC in academic and clinical settings.