What is a characteristic of Likert scales?

A Likert scale is a popular survey tool used to measure attitudes or opinions by offering a range of response options that typically reflect levels of agreement or disagreement. The characteristic of ranging from "strongly agree" to "strongly disagree" captures the essence of a Likert scale, allowing respondents to express their feelings with varying degrees of agreement regarding a particular statement. This format provides valuable insights into the intensity of respondents' attitudes, rather than merely a binary choice.

While it is common for some Likert scales to use seven response options, they are not strictly limited to that number, and can also use five or more points depending on the survey design. The presence of two opposing choices does not align with the structure of a Likert scale, which is designed to assess nuances in opinions rather than a simple dichotomy. Lastly, Likert scales are not exclusively numerical; they can also be represented with descriptive labels for each response option, allowing for a more accessible interpretation by respondents. Thus, the defining feature of a Likert scale is its range from "strongly agree" to "strongly disagree."