Abstract

The external health locus of control (HLC) is based on an assumption that obtained health results depend on the influences of external factors. As for the internal HLC-that is the effect of our own actions and capabilities. Little is known regarding how the HLC can influence body weight or the occurrence of visceral obesity. The study aimed to assess the relationship between the health locus of control and nutritional status in adults. The study included 744 adults (452 women, 292 men; 2.8% underweight, 43.8% normal weight, 29.7% overweight, and 23.7% obese). In addition to anthropometric measurement and socio-demographic data, the health locus of control, using the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale (MHLC) by Wallston K, Wallston B, and DeVellis R, was assessed. The percentage of subjects with an internal HLC did not differ significantly between obese, overweight, and normal-weight groups. However, the percentage of subjects with an external HLC-dependent on the impact of others-was significantly higher in both men and women with obesity than in corresponding overweight and normal-weight groups (p < 0.01). Yet, the percentage of subjects with an external HLC subject to the impact of chance was significantly higher among overweight and obese women than in those of normal weight (p < 0.05) only. Women with overweight or obesity, with external health locus of control, experienced both the impact of others and of chance more often than women with normal weight. However, men with overweight and with obesity more often had external health locus of control influenced only by others.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.