Scale Overview
The Reid-Ware Three-Factor Internal-External Scale was developed by Herbert M. Reid, Edward E. Ware (1974). It is designed to measure Locus of Control. The scale is intended for use with Adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 32 items organized into 3 factors/subscales: Self-control, Social system control, Fatalism.
| Factor / Subscale |
Items |
N |
| Self-control |
1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 |
8 |
| Social system control |
9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20 |
12 |
| Fatalism |
21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31,32 |
12 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: A = Statement A, B = Statement B.
The scale includes 15 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.
Total scores range from 0 to 32. Interpretation guidelines:
- Predominantly Internal Locus of Control: 0 – 10
- Mixed Locus of Control: 11 – 21
- Predominantly External Locus of Control: 22 – 32
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Alpha coefficients typically range from 0.60 to 0.80 for the subscales.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.