Chapter 8

Measurement of variables:
operational definition & scales
In our research we are interested in studying
a certain matter, which contains variables, the
relationship between them affects our
independent variable. So we have to study it.
In this chapter we are going to discuss two
methods of measurements:
•Operational definition
•Scaling
Then we will be able to test our hypotheses
and find answers to our research.
Certain things lend themselves to easy measurement
through the use of appropriate measurement
instruments, but when we get into the realm of
people's subjective feelings, attitudes, perceptions,
the measurement of these variables are more difficult.
That's when we use the operational definition.

If we could not operationalize a variable, it cannot be

studied empirically, and then we would not figure out
the relationship of this variable.
Operationalizing (or, Operational Definition)

is defining a concept so it becomes

measurable, which is achieved by looking at
behaivoral dimensions, aspects, or properties
denoted by the concept and categorizing these
into observable and measurable elements.
Cont,,,,
 The basic steps of operationalizing,
1.Specifying precisely what is meant with the
concept (i.e. conceptualization),
2.Specifying the dimensions,
3.Specifying indicators for each dimension,
4.Developing questions (measures) for each
indicator,
5. Assigning a scale to each question.
Conceptualization (Figure 8.1)
Achievement motivation is identified as the drive to
excel, to achieve in relation to a set of standards, to strive
to succeed.
Dimensions of Achievement motivation(Figure 8.1)
2. Constantly working in order to derive the feeling of
having “achieved and accomplished”.
3. Many of them would find it hard to relax and think of
things other than work.
4. Prefers to work on his/her own, rather than others.
5. Likes to be engaged in moderately challenging jobs.
6. Seeks for frequent feedback.
Indicators for Dimension 2 (Figure 8.1)
How often do they think of work while at
home.
Whether they have any hobbies.
How they spend their time off the job.
Some possible questions for each indicator (figure
8.1)
1.How frequently do you think of work while being at
home ?
A) Sometimes B) Often C)Never
2.Do you have any hobbies ? If so , how many hours
do you spend a week for your hobbies?
A)More than 4 B)4 to 2 C)less than 2
3. How frequently do you engage in the following
activities?
“please answer using the following scale:
a)sometimes b)often c) never”
1.Going to movies , theatre , concerts.
2.Spending your weekend with your family.
3.Coming together with friends.
 Stress
Operational definition for the concept of
“stress”
1.To what extent do you feel anxious and nervous?
2.How often do you feel pressured by the events that
are happening in your life?
3.How often are you confused by the situation around
you?
4.How frequently have you had headaches or stomach
upsets during the past 4 weeks?
5.How often has your blood pressure shot up during
the past six months?
6.How well do you sleep at night?
7.Do you ever feel that you are going to have a
nervous breakdown?
Thank you for listening

Thank you for listening

Mera G. Al Horani