Locus of Control and Diet Quality, Stress Levels and Resilience

Authors: Lauren Tarpey, Justin Chong, Lina Ahmed, Kristin Ngo, Aiden Fong, Chloe Mah, Lauren Tarpey

Field of Study: Health and Wellness

Program Affiliation: Health and Wellness Studies

Faculty Mentors: Lina Begdache

Easel: 61

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: The study examines how locus of control affects diet quality, stress levels, and resilience. It was hypothesized that individuals with an external locus of control would have poorer diet quality, higher stress, and lack resilience compared to an internal locus of control. Data was collected via an anonymous online survey and analyzed using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient. Results showed that those who feel unable to control their health consume fewer leafy greens (p<0.01). People who feel they lack control in their lives were positively correlated with consuming fast and sugary foods (p<0.01). Those who believe they have a harder time controlling their lives feel that stress is debilitating (p<0.01). Those who lack confidence in their ability to solve life problems have a harder time rebounding from stressful events (p<0.01). These results highlight the relationship an external locus of control has on well-being.