Re: Definitions of Likert scale, Likert item, etc.

[Michael Lacy]

Here's the locus classicus, I think:
Likert, Rensis. 1932. "A Technique for the Measurement of Attitudes."
Archives of Psychology 140: pp. 44-53.

This and numerous other classic articles in scaling are reprinted in
Maranell, Gary M.(ed.) 1974. Scaling: A Sourcebook for Behavioral
Scientists. Chicago: Aldine.

FWIW, I would argee that the term "Likert Scale" should only
be applied to a summated ratings scale based on several items
and subjected to some sort of item analysis to demonstrate
unidimensionality, etc. I don't think the terminology needs
necessarily be restricted to the measurement of attitudes,
however. 

Regards,
-- 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=
Mike Lacy,  Ft Collins CO 80523
voice (970) 491-6721        fax   (970) 491-2191


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