Correlational Analysis of Religiosity, Locus of Control, Anxiety, and Risk Prone Behavior

Abstract

This study examined the relationships among, religiosity, perceived locus of control, anxiety, and risk prone behavior. Locus of control (LOC) is defined as how an individual assigns control of life events; either internally (under individual control) or externally (controlled by external factors). Previous research has indicated that individuals who have a high level of religiosity are less likely to engage in risky behavior than individuals who have a low level of religiosity (Adams, 2000). Previous studies have also indicated a negative correlation between religiosity and anxiety. Participants in the current study participated via an online survey. The survey was comprised of measures regarding religiosity, locus of control, anxiety, and risk prone behavior. It was hypothesized that religiosity would correlate negatively with internal loci of control, anxiety, and risk prone behavior. Pearson’s r correlational analyses were conducted on all the variables. A significant positive correlation was observed between highly ritualistic religious practices and a perceived internal locus of control (p < .05) as well as a significant positive correlation between a greater external locus of control based on powerful others and higher selfreported anxiety (p < .05). However, all other correlations were not statistically significant. Implications of these findings, as well as future research directions are addressed.