A comparison of Likert scale and traditional measures of self-efficacy

Abstract

This study addressed whether a Likert-type measurement format can be used as an alternative to the traditional format for measuring self-efficacy. Classical reliability, observed correlations with relevant criteria, and confirmatory factor analyses were used to assess the similarity of the two formats in a sample of 128 college students. The results indicated that Likert-type and traditional measures of self-efficacy have similar reliability–error variance, provide equivalent levels of prediction, and have similar factor structure and similar discriminability. Overall, considering both practicality and the apparent similarity of empirical results from the two methods, a Likert scale seems to offer an acceptable alternative method of measuring self-efficacy. Limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)