Predicting Interpersonal Behavior from a Measure of Expectancy for Interpersonal Control

Abstract

Recent research in interpersonal skills and processes led to the exploration of the feasibility of predicting interpersonal behavior from an expectancy measure. The development of an instrument to predict certain interpersonal behaviors was devised from the social learning theory framework of J. B. Rotter. The instrument, the Interpersonal Control Scale, was similar in rationale, design, and construction to Rotter's I-E Scale. Results suggested that persons who express an internal orientation with respect to interpersonal relations spend more time conversing with a stranger than persons who express an external orientation. Implications for social learning theory are discussed, and suggestions are offered regarding the potential usefulness of the scale in research on interpersonal functioning.