Validity evidence based on internal structure and reliability for the Locus of Control Scale (ELOCUS)

The Locus of Control Scale (ELOCUS) is a new self-report instrument to measure generalized expectations of control in adults. Accordingly, validity evidence based on the internal structure of this instrument is presented. A total of 1,324 participants, over 18 years of age (M = 37.7 years; SD = 12.8), completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the ELOCUS in a virtual environment. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were conducted using the full sample. A two-factor solution was found, consistent with the theoretical framework, with all fit indices in both analyses being satisfactory. The internal consistency coefficients were adequate: Composite Reliability (CR), Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega of 0.89, 0.83 and 0.84 for the external locus and 0.96, 0.94 and 0.94 for internal locus, respectively, were found. Therefore, the ELOCUS presented satisfactory evidence based on the internal structure. Limitations of this study and suggestions for future studies are discussed.