Redloster

Red Lobster: Semantic Differential Recoding and Computing Variables

1. What is a reverse-scored variable, and what purpose does it serve?

A reverse-scored variable is a question where the response categories are flipped, or reversed, as compared to most of the other question. This is done with a semantic differential scale in order to avoid the halo effect. With a Likert-type scale, the reversing is done to detect or avoid naysaying or yeasaying.

When you recode a variable using the "into the same variable" option, what happens to the original data values? What purpose do you think the "into different variable recode" option serves?

With "recode into the same variable," the original data values are renumbered according to the recode instruction, and the original variable name is unchanged. With a "recode into a different variable" option, a new variable is created, and it contains the recoded values. This option preserves the original variable in its original raw, unreversed form.

3. How does a computed variable differ from a recoded variable?

A computed value is one that is created by a computation such as x = y + z where y and z are variables in the data set, and x is the newly created variable. A number of different computational operations are possible in the compute function of SPSS. A recoded variable is one where the codes have been altered by identifying the old number and specifying the new code number one number at a time in the recode window.

4. A researcher has coded all instances where respondents have indicated "do not know" or "refuse to answer" with the code, "99." How can you use the recode operation to cause SPSS for Windows to recognize that 99 stands for missing data?

There is a "system missing" option in the recode variable template. The researcher would engage the recode operation, specify the relevant variables, enter 99 in the Old Value box, and select "System-Missing" for the New Value. Click on Add and then Continue to complete the...