Individual Differences Research

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Individual Differences Research > Volume 9, Issue 3 (2011) > 173-182

The Multidimensionality of the Desirability of Control Scale (Burger & Cooper, 1979)

Adrian Thomas, Walter C. Buboltz Jr., Sarah Teague, Eric A. Seemann

Abstract

Desirability of control is an important construct for psychologists in that it has been found related to depression, domestic violence and mental well-being among other variables. The current study investigated the psychometric properties of the most used measure of desirability of control; Burger and Cooper's Desirability of Control Scale (DOCS). Exploratory factor analysis (N=400) found three factors; Leadership, Decision Avoidance, and Destiny Control. A confirmatory factor analysis (N=254) confirmed these three factors and estimates of reliability were found acceptable for two of the three factors. Additionally, the factors were related in expected directions to gender, race, and age. Given these results, continued use of total scores on the DOCS should be undertaken with caution given the DOCS may be multidimensional in nature.