Perceived Low Self-Actualization and External Fatalistic Determinism as a Function of Aging

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Abstract
This paper reports the results of research which tested for perceived differences in the locus of control orientation among the elderly. Two samples of institutionalized and noninstitutionalized men and women (N = 48), 64 to 90 years of age, were examined with respect to self-actualization and internal-external locus of control tendencies. The experimental group of 24 preselected Ss were interviewed in a nursing home; the remaining 24 Ss were interviewed in their own homes. The results suggest that a substantial difference in self-actualization and social control tendencies existed between the two groups. Both the institutionalized and noninstitutionalized group members were found to score lower than the standardized norm on self-actualization and the internal dimension; however, the institutionalized Ss recorded consistently lower scores on both self-actualization and internal locus of control than did those of the control group. Additionally, members of both groups were found to be high on the chance and powerful other attitude scales when compared to the adult standardized norm.