Scale Overview
The Right-wing Authoritarianism Scale – RWA was developed by Bob Altemeyer (1988). It is designed to measure Right-wing Authoritarianism. The scale is intended for use with Adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 22 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Very Strongly Disagree, 2 = Strongly Disagree, 3 = Moderately Disagree, 4 = Slightly Disagree, 5 = Feel Neutral, 6 = Slightly Agree, 7 = Moderately Agree, 8 = Strongly Agree, 9 = Very Strongly Agree.
The scale includes 10 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 22 to 198. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Authoritarianism: 22 – 88
- Moderate Authoritarianism: 89 – 132
- High Authoritarianism: 133 – 198
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.