A Method for Validating Semantic Differential Referents

Abstract
Semantic differential scales have been employed in numerous studies, partly because they are flexible, easy to administer, and appear to be very effective at producing generalizable results. However, one problem with the format is that it is difficult to obtain evidence that the concepts rated on the scales are appropriate for any given study. This paper presents a method which can be used to obtain such evidence. An example analysis of six semantic differential concepts, as perceived by 168 graduate education students, is presented for heuristic purposes. Several variations of the method are discussed. The results suggest that the method is flexible and may be helpful in resolving one problem associated with what many researchers regard as a generally useful instrument format.

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