Using constructivist-oriented content analysis scales

Authors

Linda L. Viney, University of WollongongFollow
Peter Caputi, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

77533

Publication Details

Viney, L. L. & Caputi, P. (2012). Using constructivist-oriented content analysis scales. In P. Caputi, L. L. Viney, B. M. Walker & N. Crittenden (Eds.), Personal Construct Methodology (pp. 223-243). United Kingdom: Wiley-Blackwell.

Abstract

Researchers adopting a personal construct psychology framework have access to a variety of techniques and methodologies (for example, self- characterizations) that generate qualitative data. There are several strategies for summarizing and analysing such data. One approach is to derive quantitative measures, which reflect the salient features of the qualitative material, which are psychometrically sound and empirically based. Using content analysis scales achieves this goal. In this chapter we present content analysis scales that are embedded with a constructivist framework: the Origin and Pawn Scales, the Positive Affect Scale, the Sociality Scales, the Content Analysis Scales of Psychosocial Maturity and the Cognitive Anxiety Scale. We describe the steps involved in developing a scale and then deal with the advantages of using the scales and the types of communication to which they can be applied. Each of the scales is described, its psychometrics reviewed, criticisms of the methodology and suggestions about using the scales in a range of research and practice provided. We also have developed Analyse, a computerized transcript scoring program.