Personality traits and locus of control: A comparative study of obese and non-obese women

Personality traits and locus of control play a significant role in understanding obesity, a pandemic that is associated with numerous medical complications and increased mortality rates. The present research aims to examine the differences in personality traits and locus of control among obese and non-obese North Indian women. Design: The present research is a two-group comparative research design for comparing personality traits and locus of control of obese and non-obese women. Sample: A total of 100women ranging from 20 to 50 years were selected as a sample of the present research using stratified sampling techniques. Females having Body Mass Index (BMI) more than 30 were selected in obese group and less than 25 BMI were assigned in the non-obese group as per World Health Organization (WHO) norms. Tools: The Indian adaptation of Big Five Inventory and Rotter’s Locus of Control Scale were employed to assess personality dimensions and internal or external control beliefs. Results: The results indicated significant differences between obese and non-obese women in Locus of control, Extraversion, Conscientiousness, Neuroticism, and Openness to experience. Obese individuals had higher BMI, external locus of control, neuroticism, and lower conscientiousness and openness to experience in comparison to non-obese women. The results are aligned with existing and previous research, confirming that external locus of control and Neuroticism, conscientiousness and openness to experience personality traits influence obesity.