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Likert scale

a type of direct attitude measure that consists of statements reflecting strong positive or negative evaluations of an object. Five-point scales are common and a neutral middle point may or may not be included. For example, an assessment item using a Likert scale response format (i.e., a Likert-type question or Likert-type item) might include the following statement choices: strongly disagree, disagree, neither disagree nor agree, agree, and strongly agree. The respondent chooses the option most representative of his or her view (e.g., on whether same-sex marriages should be permitted) and these ratings are summed to provide a total attitude score for a topic of interest. Also called Likert summated rating procedure. [Rensis Likert (1903–1981), U.S. psychologist]

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Psychology term of the day

February 16th 2025

biographical method

biographical method

the systematic use of personal histories—gathered through such means as interviews, focus groups, observations, and individual reflections and other narratives—in psychological research and analysis. This method emphasizes the placement of the individual within the context of social connections, historical events, and life experiences.