Self-Confidence May Add To Healthy Lifestyle
Researchers in the UK found that children who are self-confident may have a higher probability of becoming healthier adults.
Dr. Catherine R. Gale, of the University of Southampton in the UK, lead a team of researchers who followed more than 7,500 British adults that were born in 1970.
Published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, the study examined the possible link between physical health and a trait known as “locus of control” ““ the extent to which individuals believe they can control events in their lives through their actions.
Those who believe they are largely in charge of their lives have an "internal" locus of control, while those who feel they are not have an "external" locus.
At the age of 10, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire, which was designed to measure their locus of control.
Many other factors were also involved, such as childhood IQ, education and family income.
Adults who had shown an internal locus of control at he age of 10 were less likely to be overweight at age 30, researchers said. They were also less likely to show high levels of psychological stress.
"I think it is quite probable that a major explanation why children with a more internal locus of control behave more healthily as adults is that they have greater confidence in their ability to influence outcomes through their own actions," explained Dr. Gale.
Their boosted self-esteem may encourage them to lead healthier lives, she added.
Locus of control is often viewed as a natural component of a person’s personality. However, Gale said, there is also evidence that it is shaped by childhood experiences — including children’s interactions with their parents.
"Parents who encourage independence and help children learn the connection between their actions and consequences tend to have children with a more internal locus of control," she explained.
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