The Influence of Locus of Control on Personality Traits Among College Students

The present study explored the influence of locus of control on college students’ personality traits (Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism). A total of 142 students from Kolhapur district participated, categorized into two groups based on their locus of control: internal and external. The study utilized two primary measures: the NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI) to assess personality traits and Rotter’s Locus of Control Scale to evaluate control orientation. Statistical analysis, including means, standard deviations, and independent samples t-tests, revealed significant differences between the two groups across all personality traits. Students with an external locus of control scored higher on Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, and Agreeableness, while those with an internal locus of control exhibited higher levels of Neuroticism. These findings contribute to understanding how locus of control may influence personality dynamics among college students and suggest potential pathways for improving academic performance and psychological well-being through interventions targeting locus of control.