Does Rotter's I-E Scale Measure Perceived Competence? A Replica to Graybill-Sergeant

Abstract

This article discusses the interpretation put forward by Graybill and Sergeant of considering Collins' 1974 Difficult-Easy World Factor as a measure of perceived competence. Theoretical arguments are presented of how Collins' items do not seem to be linked to the perceived competence dimension postulated by Graybill and Sergeant but rather to the perceived contingency dimension. Several scales of locus of control and perceived self-efficacy were completed by 184 subjects. Stepwise multiple regression analyses offer clear empirical support to these theoretical arguments. The article concludes by suggesting a need to unravel the current confusion to introduce some coherence and to develop a general model of perceived control which will articulare the different constructs which constitute the nexus of confusion.

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