Locus of Control and Spirituality in Opioid Dependence

Abstract

The aim of this study was to find out if Locus of Control and Spirituality play a role in opioid dependence (opioid user group). The participants (N=120; 60 opioid user group and 60 non-user gender matched group) completed a questionnaire comprising of demographic information, Multidimensional Locus of Control Scales (Levenson, H., 2009) and Spiritual Attitude and Involvement List (SAIL; De Jager Meezenbroek, E et al., 2012). The results indicated that the opioid user group scored higher in the external locus of control scales (Powerful others scale and Chance scale) as compared to the non-user group in the Multidimensional Locus of Control Scales. There was a significant difference between the two groups in the Spiritual Attitude and Involvement List (SAIL) where the non-user group scored higher in all the subscales. Correlational analysis indicated that in the opioid user group, Internal Scale was significantly positively related to SAIL (Caring for Others), while Powerful others was significantly negatively related to SAIL (Trust). In the non-user group, there was a significant positive relationship between Chance Scale with both Internal Scale and the Powerful Others Scale while Internal Scale was significantly positively related to all the SAIL subscales such as Trust, Caring for Others and Transcendent experiences. The results were found to be consistent with similar researches done in the past and has hence reiterated the importance of religious and spiritual based intervention in substance treatment programs as well as the necessity to readjusting one’s locus of control to deal effectively with substance use.