ipsative scaling

n. A means of measuring scale values that utilizes an individual,s own self-report responses and characteristics as the basis for comparison. Ipsative scales are often used in personality and interest inventories. Assessment questions utilizing ipsative scaling use forced- choice items and require test takers to select between provided alternatives or rank preferences and feelings. For example, the question "Would you rather read a book or watch a movie?" utilizes ipsative scaling, as it requires respondents to select between two alternatives. Ipsative scores are not an absolute measure as they only provide information about relative preferences or interests. Selecting one forced-choice option over another indicates nothing about overall preferences, interests, or traits; rather, it provides a relative measure of the target of interest. In contrast to normative scaling (which can compare scores across individuals), ipsative scaling is only valid for intrapersonal analysis.

- BJM