Multidimensional Health Locus of Control

What it measures

Measures beliefs about who or what controls one's health outcomes. Distinguishes internal control (own behaviour determines health), powerful others control (doctors/others determine health), and chance control (luck/fate determines health). Widely used in health behaviour, adherence, and health promotion research.

Representative items

• If I get sick, it is my own behaviour which determines how soon I get well again. (Internal)
• Most things that affect my health happen to me by accident. (Chance)
• Having regular contact with my physician is the best way for me to avoid illness. (Powerful Others)
• When I stay healthy, I'm just plain lucky. (Chance)
• My physical well-being depends on how well I take care of myself. (Internal)

Citation

Wallston, K.A., Wallston, B.S., & DeVellis, R. (1978). Development of the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control (MHLC) Scales. Health Education Monographs, 6(2), 160–170.