Title

Differentiating Active and Passive Entitlement: Associations with Self-Esteem and Locus of Control.

Creator

Vardi, Maria Eleni

Abstract

A theoretical shift in the literature of entitlement distinguishes between active entitlement, expressed through assertive claims of deservingness, and passive entitlement, reflected in unspoken expectations from others and withdrawal. This study examined the cognitive origins of these forms, expecting them to relate differently to individuals’ sense of control and self-worth. A convenience sample of 68 young adults completed standard measures of self-esteem, locus of control, and entitlement. Active entitlement was positively correlated with both self-esteem and perceived control, and self-esteem predicted active entitlement. Despite limitations, including the correlational design, reliance on self-reports, and a predominantly female sample, the findings support the distinction between active and passive forms, highlight the role of self-esteem in certain entitled attitudes, and point to the need for further research, particularly on passive entitlement.

Keywords

active and passive entitlement

self-esteem

locus of control

Subject

Psychology

Date Available

May 27, 2026

Type

Session

Course

PS 3518 L5 Nonexperiemtnal Ressearch in Psychology

Instructor

Karakitsou, Chryssoula

Session

Poster Session

Location

Student Lounge - Main Corridor

Meet the Artist Time

May 27: 12.00 - 15.00

Event

Year 2026 | 10th Annual Student Research and Creative Arts Symposium