Final answer:
The strength of one's beliefs is linked to personal control beliefs which include an internal or external locus of control and can be affected by cognitive dissonance and the power of the situation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The strength of one's beliefs about rules, beliefs, and attitudes is linked to personal control beliefs. Personal control beliefs, referring to our sense of control over events in our lives, determine how tightly we hold onto our attitudes and values. These beliefs affect our behavior and can either be an internal locus of control or an external locus of control. Having an internal locus of control means believing we have the power to affect our outcomes, while an external locus suggests outside forces shape our lives. Attitudes are complex constructs influenced by affective, behavioral, and cognitive components and are subject to change based on the power of the situation or through the process of cognitive dissonance. Additionally, phenomena such as conformity, compliance, obedience, prejudice, and discrimination can impact belief and attitude formation and strength.