A comparison of Anglo- and Mexican-American college students on locus of control

Data from 47 Anglo and 47 Mexican-American college students matched for sex and socioeconomic background show that Mexican-American Ss scored significantly less external on the full Rotter Internal-External Control Scale and on 2 of the 5 dimensional categories (respect and luck and fate). Findings not only contradict the stereotype that Mexican-Americans are fatalistic but also suggest that their culture contributes to a greater perception of internal control.