Defining the self: Locus of evaluation, self -esteem, and personality
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to develop and validate the Locus of Evaluation Inventory (LEI), and examine the relationships among locus of evaluation, self-esteem, and measures of personality. Despite being heralded as critical to successful psychotherapy (Raskin, 1952) and central to optimal psychological functioning (Rogers, 1959), insufficient measurement has contributed to a dearth of empirical research investigating locus of evaluation. Therefore, in Study 1, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted on LEI items to assist in establishing construct validity. A four factor LEI composed of 25 items was produced. The four factor solution accounted for 36.88% of the total variance, and produced a .88 coefficient alpha for the LEI total. Factor 1 was named Low Self-Regard, Factor 2 was named Concern for Others' Opinions, Factor 3 was named Dependence, and Factor 4 was named Public Self-Consciousness. Satisfactory concurrent and convergent estimates of validity were established. Significant correlations were found between external locus of evaluation and low self-esteem, neuroticism, low conscientiousness, and procrastination. Study 2 established an adequate estimate of test-retest reliability (r = .81) over a two-week period for the 25-item LEI. These results are discussed in terms of the broad implications that locus of evaluation and the LEI may have on conceptualizing, assessing, and facilitating psychological functioning.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Lee, Purdue University.
Subject Area
School counseling|Clinical psychology|Personality psychology|Quantitative psychology
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