Four semantic rating scales compared

Abstract

In the construction of semantic rating scales, what format works best? "The questionnaire used in this investigation consisted of 24 eight-step rating scales… . All the scales were bipolar, and were defined by words or phrases at the scale poles, in the manner of the Semantic Differential… . The ratings were made by approximately 400 housewives… interviewed in their own homes by 11 professional interviewers." Rating and interviewer reports were the criteria. Methods were compared. "Whatever method is chosen, the choice should be made with a thoughtful evaluation of the influences these details of format and administration may have upon results." (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)