Measuring the Religious Variable: Replication

Abstract

Is it useful to treat the religious variable as multidimensional? Can correlational techniques identify separate dimensions? If so, are the dimensions like those proposed in the literature? A pilot study of Methodists using questionnaire data indicated yes answers to these questions. The study was repeated on a larger number of subjects from four denominations using a modified universe of items and similar factor-analytic and item-scale analyses. The earlier findings were confirmed. Ten scales, defining different dimensions of religious behavior and congregational involvement, were developed. Correlations with each other and with independent variables indicate that they may be useful, both in theoretical research and in denominational evaluation and planning. The dimensions thus defined are quite similar to those developed in the pilot study, some of which were like those hypothesized in the literature. Limitations of the study are discussed.

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