Theses and Dissertations

Advisor

Porter, Bennett

Committee Member

Dozier, Mary

Committee Member

DeShong, Hilary

Date of Degree

5-15-2026

Original embargo terms

Visible MSU Only 2 Years

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Campus Access Only

Major

Psychology

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Department

Department of Psychology

Abstract

Locus of Control (LOC) has been associated with various outcomes relevant to military mission effectiveness and personnel well-being. Military service requires relinquishment of some personal control, indicating LOC may be influenced by military service as LOC is context dependent. This study developed a military LOC scale that examined sense of personal and military control over facets of military life. Items were derived through literature review and consultation with military personnel, and piloted with a separate sample of service members. An exploratory factor analysis was conducted with 309 military participants recruited via social media, snowball sampling, and flyers. The EFA yielded a 20-item, 4-factor scale with good reliability. Individual factors were labeled perceived control over Health Behaviors, Medical/Mental Health Access, Work, and Personal Life. Exploratory analyses examined scale associations with military variables. Time served, military branch, nature of separation, and intent to extend service commitment were significantly associated with MILC scores.

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