Moderated regression analysis and Likert scales: too coarse for comfort

Article Abstract:

One of the most commonly accepted models of relationships among three variables in applied industrial and organizational psychology is the simple moderator effect. However, many authors have expressed concern over the general lack of empirical support for interaction effects reported in the literature. We demonstrate in the current sample that use of a continuous, dependent-response scale instead of a discrete, Likert-type scale, causes moderated regression analysis effect sizes to increase an average of 93%. We suggest that use of relatively coarse Likert scales to measure fine dependent responses causes information loss that, although varying widely across subjects, greatly reduces the probability of detecting true interaction effects. Specific recommendations for alternate research strategies are made. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Variables (Mathematics), Scaling (Social sciences)

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Predictive validity of biodata items generated from retrospective life experience essays

Article Abstract:

Biographical information was generated from retrospective life-history essays completed in the fall of 1986 by first-year students at the U.S. Naval Academy. Essays were targeted to aspects of four generic life experiences (individual accomplishments, group accomplishments, disappointing situations, and stressful situations) that might reflect the processes or outcomes of antecedent developmental episodes. Essays were coded to generate biodata items, which were then given to 917 midshipmen entering the Naval Academy in the summer of 1987. Scales were developed that predicted criteria of military performance, academic performance, and peer ratings of leadership in validation and cross-validation samples. Implications for item development and biodata construct validity are discussed. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Surveys, Biographies, Psychology, Success, United States. Naval Academy, Predictive value of tests, Predictive value of tests (Medical)

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