Relationship of locus of control, learned helplessness and coping strategies among patients with chronic illness

This research focused on investigating how locus of control, learned helplessness, and coping strategies are related in patients dealing with chronic illness. A sample of 100 chronic patients was drawn using a stratified sampling technique, comprising 48 males and 52 females from Bahawal Vitoria Hospital, Bahawalpur. A cross-sectional survey method was employed, with data collected through interviews. Three validated questionnaires were also used: the Pettijohn Locus of Control Scale (1992), the Quinless & Nelson Learned Helplessness Scale (1988), and the Coping Strategies Inventory by Hamby, Grych, & Banyard (2013). The results of this study indicate a significant correlation among coping strategies, locus of control, and learned helplessness. The literature review supports the findings related to the impact of chronic illness on these psychological constructs. The results are discussed in terms of gender differences, variance in factors, and the role of psychosocial support in managing chronic illness.