Four-Item F Scale [FIS-4]

Scale Description

The Four-Item F Scale (FIS-4) is a brief tool designed to measure an individual’s authoritarian tendencies and fascist attitudes. This scale is a shortened version of the original F Scale, developed to assess authoritarian beliefs and the predisposition towards fascist ideologies. The FIS-4 consists of four questions that target key aspects of authoritarianism, such as respect for authority, aggression towards deviant groups, and the defense of tradition.

Data Analysis and Usage

The analysis of data from the FIS-4 involves the use of quantitative methods to evaluate participants’ responses. The process typically includes:

Descriptive Statistics:

Means and Standard Deviations: Calculation of means and standard deviations for the four questions of the scale.

Reliability: Due to the small number of items, the reliability of the scale is often assessed using specific techniques such as test-retest reliability rather than the traditional Cronbach’s alpha.

Correlations:

Analysis of correlations between responses to the four questions, as well as with other related scales, to understand the overall tendency towards authoritarianism and fascist attitudes.

Validity:

Examination of convergent and divergent validity through correlations with other known scales of authoritarianism or political beliefs.

Purpose

The primary goal of the FIS-4 is to provide a brief and convenient method for assessing authoritarian beliefs and the predisposition towards fascist ideologies. It is particularly suitable for situations where time is limited or when a quick preliminary assessment of authoritarian tendencies is required.

Calibration

The calibration of the FIS-4 involves evaluating the accuracy and consistency of the responses:

Internal Consistency Assessment: Given the small number of items, methods such as test-retest reliability or dichotomous item analysis are often used.

Comparative Analysis: The results of the FIS-4 are compared with larger scales of authoritarianism to confirm the validity and accuracy of the measurement.