• Dr Ranjay Kumar

Murder, the most severe form of unlawful homicide, involves deliberate killings with malice aforethought. Understanding the motives behind murder is a critical focus in forensic psychology and criminology. Human motives, influenced by perceptions and beliefs about reinforcement, shape behaviours and determine actions towards others. This study explores the role of internal-external control of reinforcement in murders by comparing murderers with non-criminals. A total of 100 Hindu male subjects aged 20–60 years with at least a primary-level education were purposively sampled, including 50 convicted murderers from Central Jail, Beur, Patna, Bihar, and 50 non-criminals from various districts in Bihar. Participants were assessed using a self-prepared Personal Data Schedule (PDS) and Rotter’s Locus of Control (LOC) Scale, which assesses beliefs about whether reinforcement is under personal control or influenced by external factors like fate or luck. The data were analysed using the t-tests and Chi-square tests. Significant differences were observed between two groups. Murderers scored higher on the LOC Scale, indicating a belief in external control, where outcomes are perceived as influenced by external forces rather than personal actions. Non-criminals scored lower, reflecting internal control, characterized by a belief in personal responsibility for outcomes. In conclusion, the findings suggest that individuals with higher scores on Rotter’s LOC Scale may be more prone to engaging in antisocial behaviours or criminal activities, such as murder. These results emphasize the need to promote ethical and value-based education and socialisation among new generations, alongside interventions aimed at addressing correctional shortcomings and rehabilitate individuals inclined towards criminal activities.

Murder, Internal-External Locus of Control, Murderers, Non-Criminals.

"Effect of Internal-External Locus of Control on Murders: A Comparative Study of Murderers and Non-criminals", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 12, page no.h303-h307, December-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2412734.pdf

"Effect of Internal-External Locus of Control on Murders: A Comparative Study of Murderers and Non-criminals", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 12, page no. pph303-h307, December-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2412734.pdf