Comprehensive training in self regulation (SR) (including biofeedback training, relaxation techniques, and cognitive therapy principles) has been proposed as a means of affecting change in individual locus of control (LOC) orientation. The current study directly compared a uni-dimensional LOC scale (Ratter, 1966) with a multidimensional LOC scale (Levenson, 1973) in the ability to detect changes in the LOC orientation. Other effects of SR training were measured by the State-Trait Anxiety Scale (STAY) and the Irrational Beliefs Test (IBT). Nineteen participants in a biofeedback/stress reduction class completed a course in SR training. The pre-test/post-test results were compared with those of a matched control group. Results indicated SR training did not affect either state anxiety or LOC orientation as measured by the instruments. Consequently, the comparison of the two LOC scales revealed no differences and the null hypothesis could not be rejected. However, the scores on the IBT indicated the experimental group significantly decreased in their scores on four irrational beliefs (p‹.05) while the control group decreased in one irrational belief (p‹.05). It was concluded that SR training decreased some aspects of irrationality in participants
