Outline and briefly evaluate locus of control as an explanation of resistance to social influence. (Total 6 marks)

Model Answer

Locus of control refers to whether individuals attribute outcomes to internal or external factors. People with an internal locus believe they control their actions and are more likely to resist social influence.

One strength is supporting evidence from Oliner and Oliner, who found that individuals with an internal locus were more likely to resist authority during the Holocaust. However, a limitation is that locus of control does not account for all instances of resistance, as situational factors, such as social support, also play a significant role.