Abstract
The interaction of individual differences in generalized expectancies for internal vs. external control of reinforcement with treatment conditions designed to correspond to specific internal vs. external beliefs was studied. Generalized expectancy for internal vs. external control was assessed by the Rotter I-E [Internal-External] scale. Treatment conditions compared smoking-cessation counseling sessions including an internal therapist message, sessions including an external therapist message and control sessions including no experimental message. The 3 treatment conditions had in common a set of behavioral instructions to Ss [subjects]. The predicted operation of a consistency factor in effecting the study criterion of cessation of smoking was not obtained. There was a statistically nonsignificant tendency for both therapist messages to interfere with smoking cessation on the part of the more internal Ss. The standard set of behavioral instructions was the most helpful component in leading to the initiation of smoking cessation. Rotter I-E scores did not predict success in smoking cessation.