Final answer:
People who believe that their health status is largely within their own control are more likely to embrace positive health behaviors. Research supports the idea that individuals with a higher level of perceived control over their health outcomes are healthier, better able to cope, and less depressed. This belief in personal control is also related to social class and can have an impact on health outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
People who believe that their health status is largely within their own control are more likely to embrace positive health behaviors. This is because they have a perceived sense of control over their health outcomes. Research has found that individuals with higher levels of perceived control are healthier, better able to cope, and less depressed than those with an external locus of control.
When individuals perceive that they have control over their health, they are more likely to engage in behaviors that promote good health, such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress effectively. This belief in personal control over health outcomes can lead to better health outcomes and reduce the risk of physical health problems like heart disease.
The link between perceived control and health is also related to social class. Individuals of higher social class tend to believe that they can personally control and manage their reactions to life's stressors, which can lead to better health. On the other hand, individuals of lower social class may experience poorer health due to a lack of perceived control and the accompanying health problems and lower life satisfaction.