In a similar fashion, the low empirical relations between general personality
traits and behavior in specific situations has led theorists to claim
that the trait concept, defined as a broad behavior disposition, is untenable
(Mischel, 1968). Of particular interest for present purposes are attempts
to relate generalized locus of control (Rotter, 1954, 1966) to behaviors
in specific contexts. As with other personality traits, the results
have been disappointing. For example, perceived locus of control, as
assessed by Rotter’s scale, often fails to predict achievement-related behavior
(see Warehime, 1972) or political involvement (see Levenson,
1981) in a systematic fashion; and somewhat more specialized measures,
such as health-locus of control and achievement-related locus of control,
have not fared much better (see Lefcourt, 1982; Wallston & Wallston,
1981).