Abstract
M.A.
Clayton (1996) cites studies of stress experienced by the elderly, such as rape (Frank et al. 1984) o
catastrophic financial loss (Ganzini et al. 1990) (such as in burglary or hijacking) that have indicate(
that these stresses may result in the onset of major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety
disorder response is depression.
This study will attempt to compare elderly persons (Group 1) having been admitted to an old age
facility less than two years prior, with a matched sample of same (Group 2) having been resident a
the same facility for longer than that. This subdivision into Groups 1 and 2 will be the independen
variable. The dependent variables will be various psychometric measures, being the Rotter Locus o
Control Test, Beck Depression Test, Wallston Health Locus of Control Test and the Simmons Self.
Image Scale. Respondents will also have an erythrocyte sedimentation test performed, which is
simple non-specific blood test that is also an excellent measure of overall health and concomitarr
stress levels. Manipulation of the results will support or refute the detailed hypotheses as set out it
the Methodology chapter. The aim of this study is to build on studies such as those of Meyerson anc
Haggerty (1962) (in Ader, 1981) and Heyman (1992) by introducing the differentiating factor 01
institutionalisation and locus of control as a factor to be considered in primary health care.