Locus of Control as a Predictor of Users' Attitude toward Computers

Abstract

With the increasing influx of computers in industry modifying jobs and work environments, it is necessary to understand how workers may be reacting to computers. Locus of control, within the framework of valence-instrumentality-expectancy theory, is seen as an efficient predictor of workers' motivation and job satisfaction. Two experiments are described in which the relationship between locus of control and attitude toward computers is explored. Exp. 1 (68 subjects) demonstrates a relationship between locus of control and attitudes toward computers. Internal scorers had a more positive (favorable) attitude toward computers than external persons. Exp. 2 (65 subjects) attempts to clarify the possible dimensions on which externals may be viewing the computer more negatively (unfavorably) by utilizing a locus of control scale developed by Levenson (1973).