RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LOCUS OF CONTROL, SELF ESTEEM AND HELPING ATTITUDE AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

Young adulthood is a unique developmental period that occurs between the ages of 18 to 25 years, during the transition from adolescence to adulthood. This period is characterized by key developmental tasks that allow the young adult to participate in self-exploration to cultivate a personal identity and belief system, all the while gaining independence and autonomy. Research studies on examining the relationship between locus of control, self esteem and helping attitude are limited in Indian context. The present study aims to examine the relationship between locus of control, selfesteem and helping attitude among young adults. A sample of 100 individuals (50 males and 50 females) of the age group 18 - 25 years was collected through digital media as well as in person using non - probability convenience sampling. Pearson’s product moment correlation and independent sample t test was the statistical analysis used in the present study. Results indicated that the individual control domain, powerful others and chance control domain of locus of control were not significantly correlated to self-esteem. Self-esteem was positively correlated with helping attitude. Individual control domain of locus of control was positively correlated with helping attitude. Significant gender differences were observed in helping attitude with female young adults scoring higher than their male counterparts. The present study helps in understanding the factors that influence helping attitude thereby enriching the literature. Since individual control and self esteem is found to have significant relationship with helping attitude, interventions focusing on prosocial behavior can consider these variables to have an indirect influence on helping attitude. The results supports sociometer theory highlighting the reciprocal relationship of prosocial behavior and self-esteem.