The Role of Locus of Control as a State or Trait Factor in Threat Perceptions and Well-Being During Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract Locus of control and self-regulation are critical facets of human functioning, particularly in uncertain or threatening situations. However, the role of locus of control in maintaining well-being remains unclear. This study examines whether locus of control functions as a trait and/or state amidst a global pandemic and its perceived threat. Specifically, we investigate the impact of perceived threats on affective well-being, exploring whether locus of control mediates this relationship dynamically (State Hypothesis) or moderates it as a stable trait (Trait Hypothesis). A representative sample of 716 Germans participated in a lagged survey study, assessing perceived threat, emotion regulation, locus of control, and demographics in June 2020, and affective well-being was measured in November 2020. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that while locus of control did not mediate the relationship between threat and well-being, it directly influenced affective well-being. An external locus of control enhances self-regulation in response to threat, with emotion regulation being pivotal for individuals with external control beliefs. These findings suggest that control beliefs may operate more robustly as trait-like dispositions. At the same time, future research is needed to directly examine their potential state-like variability through repeated or experimental assessments. Nevertheless, these findings provide insights into locus of control dynamics, offering guidance for public health strategies to enhance resilience during pandemics or similar crises.