Measurement of perceived control over anxiety-related events

Measures of perceived control over different, specific spheres of an individual's life may form more homogeneous constructs than measures of a broad, general locus of control. Along these lines, it is likely that anxiety and the anxiety disorders may be characterized by a lack of perceived control over particular events and occurrences such as certain internal emotional reactions or externally threatening events. The present study was aimed at developing a questionnaire to measure this construct. Initial item selection was based on data from 250 anxious subjects. Reliability and factor-structure were replicated with a nonclinical group. The scale showed good inter-item and test-retest reliability as well as good discriminant and convergent validity. The scale appears promising for clinical application and for use in studies on the nature and treatment of anxiety and related disorders.