Attributions of control and seropositivity among Latinos: examining the predictive utility of the locus of control construct

Abstract

This investigation explored the utility of the health locus of control construct in predicting the mental health quality of life (MHQOL) ratings of 72 Latinos living with HIV/AIDS. After controlling for patient CD4 count, viral load, time since diagnosis, Physical Health Quality of Life and acculturative status, Powerful Others Locus of Control beliefs accounted for a significant increment of the variance in Mental Health Quality of Life. In a similar model, Internal Locus of Control failed to predict MHQOL. Discussion and implications highlight how cultural considerations may broaden investigations of health among diverse, minority populations.

Keywords:

• HIV/AIDS
• locus of control
• acculturation
• depression