Scale Description

The Socio-Communicative Orientation Scale (SCO) is a psychometric tool developed to assess individuals’ social and communicative orientations. This scale is based on the theory of social and communicative competence and examines how individuals orient themselves and function in social and communicative interactions.

Data Analysis and Use

The analysis of responses on the SCO involves evaluating answers to a series of statements related to two main dimensions:

  • Relational Orientation: Assesses an individual’s ability and willingness to create and maintain positive interpersonal relationships. Statements in this dimension may include empathy, support, and communicative sensitivity.
  • Task Orientation: Assesses an individual’s ability and willingness to focus on and achieve goals and tasks. Statements in this dimension may include organization, persistence, and efficiency in work.

Responses are typically scored on a five or seven-point Likert scale (from 1=Strongly Disagree to 5 or 7=Strongly Agree).

Objective

The objective of the SCO is to provide a reliable and valid measurement of the two core dimensions of social and communicative orientation: relational orientation and task orientation. This can help researchers and communication professionals better understand how these orientations affect interpersonal relationships and work performance.

Calibration

The calibration of the SCO involves calculating total scores for each dimension, as well as an overall score for social and communicative orientation. These scores can be categorized to indicate levels of social and communicative competence:

  • Low relational or task orientation: Indicates low levels of competence or willingness in creating relationships or achieving goals.
  • Moderate relational or task orientation: Indicates moderate levels of competence or willingness in creating relationships or achieving goals.
  • High relational or task orientation: Indicates high levels of competence or willingness in creating relationships or achieving goals.

Bibliography

Richmond, V. P., & McCroskey, J. C. (1990). Reliability and separation of factors on the assertiveness-responsiveness measure. Psychological Reports, 67(2), 449-450.

Norton, R. W. (1983). Communicator style: Theory, applications, and measures. Sage Publications.

Wheeless, L. R., & Reichel, L. (1990). A reinforcement model of communicative altruism and solidarity in friendships. Communication Quarterly, 38(4), 372-387.

Spitzberg, B. H., & Cupach, W. R. (1984). Interpersonal communication competence. Sage Publications.