Choosing response categories for summated rating scales.

Abstract

Argues that the selection of response categories for summated rating (Likert) scales is often made arbitrarily; however, the equal interval properties of the response continuum is assumed even though this assumption may in fact, be false. To avoid the problems that unequal intervals might cause, it is suggested that equal interval categories be used. To this end, 3 lists of commonly used categories (agreement, evaluation, and frequency) were scaled, using data from 107 undergraduates. The scale values are presented to aid the researcher in choosing response categories; however, it is suggested that separate scale values be derived for each population sampled.