Self-perceived multidimensional health control locus among central Indian dental students: The impact of professionalization

Abstract

Background: Assessment of multidimensional locus of control (MLOC) will reveal the effect of professionalization among dental students. The aim of this study was to know the possible factors with effect health locus of control (HLC) of Indian dental students. Methodology: The study population comprised 230 dental students. MLOC was recorded using Form type C with 18 questions. The significance level was set at P ≤ 0.05. Results: Comparison of the mean scores for the three-multidimensional health locus of control subscales (Internal, Chance, and Powerful Others) from the first year to the final year showed that the mean score for the Internal subscale was consistently higher, followed by the mean scores for powerful others and chance in all the years of study. The Internal subscale mean increased from the first year to the second year of study and then decreased from the third year to the final year of study (P = 0.004). Conclusion: Internal HLCs dominated the study population, and the mean internal scores increased from the first BDS to the final year.

Keywords

• dental students
• health behavior
• health psychology
• locus of control