Subordinate Function Scale and Superior Function Scale (SFS)
Measures the extent to which an employee perceives themselves as occupying a subordinate or superior role within their workplace hierarchy.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Subordinate Function Scale and Superior Function Scale (SFS) was developed by Fischer & Kohr (1980). It is designed to measure Perceived subordinate and superior functions in the workplace. The scale is intended for use with Working adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 19 items organized into 2 factors/subscales: Perceived Subordinate Function, Perceived Superior Function.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Perceived Subordinate Function | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9 | 9 |
| Perceived Superior Function | 10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19 | 10 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Untrue, 2 = Somewhat untrue, 3 = Neither/Nor, 4 = Somewhat true, 5 = True.
The scale includes 2 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.
Total scores range from 9 to 45. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low perceived subordination: 9 – 19
- Moderate-low perceived subordination: 20 – 26
- Moderate-high perceived subordination: 27 – 30
- High perceived subordination: 31 – 45
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Cronbach's alpha: Subordinate Function = .79, Superior Function = .88.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.