Description

The Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale for Children (AQ-40) is a psychological assessment tool designed to measure children’s perceptions of control over their own lives. It evaluates whether children attribute outcomes in their lives to internal factors (e.g., their own actions) or external factors (e.g., luck or other people). The scale consists of 40 items and is used to assess locus of control in children, which is a key factor in understanding their behavioral and emotional responses.

Data Analysis and Usage

Data Collection: Children respond to 40 items that assess their beliefs about control over various aspects of their lives. Responses are typically recorded using a Likert scale or dichotomous yes/no answers, depending on the version used.
Data Processing: Responses are scored based on the direction of control orientation indicated by the items. Higher scores may indicate an external locus of control (belief that external factors are more influential), while lower scores suggest an internal locus of control (belief that personal actions and decisions have a greater impact).
Data Interpretation: The scores are analyzed to understand the extent to which children perceive themselves as having control over their circumstances. Patterns and trends in locus of control can be identified, which helps in understanding children’s attitudes and behaviors.
Application: The results are used by educators, psychologists, and counselors to develop interventions and strategies that can help children develop a more balanced locus of control, potentially improving their coping mechanisms and overall psychological well-being.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale for Children [AQ-40] are:
Assessment of Locus of Control: To measure the extent to which children believe they have control over their life events versus attributing outcomes to external factors.
Understanding Behavior and Attitudes: To gain insights into how children’s beliefs about control impact their behavior, motivation, and emotional responses.
Intervention Development: To use the results to design educational and psychological interventions aimed at fostering a healthier locus of control, promoting resilience and adaptive coping strategies.
Research and Evaluation: To provide data for research on the relationship between locus of control and various psychological and developmental outcomes in children.

Calibration

Scoring: Each item on the AQ-40 is scored based on the child’s responses. The scoring system reflects the direction of locus of control, with higher scores typically indicating a more external orientation.
Statistical Analysis: The scale’s reliability and validity are assessed using statistical methods, including internal consistency checks (e.g., Cronbach’s alpha) and factor analysis to ensure the scale effectively measures locus of control.
Normative Data: Scores are compared against normative data to interpret individual results in the context of broader population trends. This comparison helps to understand how a child’s locus of control compares to age-appropriate norms.

Bibliography

Nowicki, S., & Strickland, B. R. (1973). A locus of control scale for children. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 40(1), 148-154.
Nowicki, S., & Strickland, B. R. (1974). The Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale: A study of the validity and reliability. Journal of Personality Assessment, 38(6), 468-472.
Phares, E. J. (1976). Locus of Control in Children: Theory and Research. Academic Press.
Rotter, J. B. (1966). Generalized Expectancies for Internal versus External Control of Reinforcement. Psychological Monographs: General and Applied, 80(1), 1-28.
Lefcourt, H. M. (1981). Locus of Control: Current Trends in Theory and Research. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.