Perceived problem difficulty, perseverance, and success in the locus of control-affect relationship

Abstract

A number of research efforts in various areas of psychology, have substantiated a relationship between perceived control of reinforcement and affective states. Specifically, the perception that such control is internal (as opposed to external) is associated with positive affect. In the present study, an investigation was conducted which attempted to delineate the process by which this relationship occurs. A causal model was hypothesized which consisted of the following four steps: (1) The perception of internal control is associated with less perceived problem difficulty. (2) Less perceived problem difficulty in turn elicits greater perseverance. (3) This greater perseverance produces greater success. (4) This greater success in turn causes a more positive change in affect. Using a specially designed computer program which involved attempts at solving mazes, support was found for each of the four steps in the model. Implications of these results are discussed.