Analysis

The analysis of data from the Social Attitudes Questionnaire includes both quantitative and qualitative examination of responses. Quantitative analyses may involve statistical techniques such as factor analysis or analysis of variance, in order to identify key patterns and relationships among the different variables. Qualitative analyses focus on interpreting open-ended responses and may include thematic analysis to better understand participants’ deeper beliefs and attitudes.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the Social Attitudes Questionnaire is to understand and capture the social attitudes that prevail within a specific social group or population. By analyzing responses, researchers can identify patterns of thought and behavior that shape social interactions. In addition, this tool can be used to study changes in social attitudes over time or in response to specific social events or policy interventions.

Calibration

The calibration of responses in the questionnaire is usually carried out using a Likert scale or other similar measurement tools. Participants are asked to rate their level of agreement or disagreement with a series of statements on a scale ranging from 1 to 5, or 1 to 7, where 1 may indicate “Strongly Disagree” and 5 or 7 “Strongly Agree.” This calibration allows for quantitative comparison of responses and the detection of differences and similarities in social attitudes across different demographic groups.

References

Adapted from handout: Clark, D. M. Workshop on Social Phobia.
BABCP Pre-Conference Workshop; July 16, 2013; London.