A researcher hypothesizes that there is a positive correlation between symptom severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and external locus of control. Which hypothetical finding would support this hypothesis?

Question

A researcher hypothesizes that there is a positive correlation between symptom severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and external locus of control.  Which hypothetical finding would support this hypothesis?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecba2d_0d42_8360_a3bf_7527601a18c8_MD0008_00 Locus of control (LOC) refers to an individual's beliefs about who or what controls the outcome of an event or situation. Individuals with an external LOC feel that outcomes are due to factors beyond their control, such as luck, fate, or powerful others. Individuals with an internal LOC feel that outcomes are due to factors within their control, such as their own behaviors. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a trauma- and stressor-related disorder that can arise after exposure to trauma, an event that resulted or almost resulted in death or serious injury (eg, assault). A PTSD diagnosis requires evidence of several types of symptoms, including hyperarousal (eg, exaggerated startle response, insomnia); intrusive symptoms (eg, nightmares, flashbacks); avoiding reminders of the trauma; and negative thoughts and moods. The researcher's hypothesis would be supported by the finding that more severe hyperarousal (a symptom of PTSD) is associated with a stronger belief that the outcomes of events are due to luck, fate, or powerful others (external LOC). (Choices A, B, and C) A distorted and unstable self-image (ie, view of oneself) is characteristic of borderline personality disorder, not PTSD. The belief that the outcomes of events are controlled by one's own actions refers to an internal (not external) LOC. Educational objective: Locus of control (LOC) refers to an individual's beliefs about who or what controls the outcome of a situation: Either a person has the ability to influence outcomes of events (internal LOC), or outcomes are determined by luck, fate, or powerful others (external LOC). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can arise after exposure to a traumatic event and is characterized by hyperarousal, intrusive symptoms, avoidance behaviors, and negative thoughts/mood.

A Researcher Hypothesizes That There Is a Positive Correlation Between