Sociocommunicative orientation refers to an individual's perception of how assertive and responsive he/she is. This instrument is designed to measures these orientations. Generally, these orientations are either totally uncorrelated or only marginally correlated (r < .30). These are two of the three components of the SCO construct. The third component is variously labeled as "versatility" or "flexibility." This third component is best measured by the "Cognitive Flexibility" scale. The alpha reliability estimates for the measures of assertiveness and responsiveness are generally above .80. The predictive validity of this instrument has been demonstrated in numerous studies. It is believed that the components of SCO (assertiveness, responsiveness, and versatility/flexibility) are the essential cognitive components of general communication competence.
 

INSTRUCTIONS: The questionnaire below lists twenty personality characteristics. Please indicate the degree to which you believe each of these characteristics applies to you while interacting with others by marking whether you (5) strongly agree that it applies, (4) agree that it applies, (3) are undecided, (2) disagree that it applies, or (1) strongly disagree that it applies. There are no right or wrong answers. Work quickly; record your first impression.

_____ 1. helpful

_____ 2. defends own beliefs

_____ 3. independent

_____ 4. responsive to others

_____ 5. forceful

_____ 6. has strong personality

_____ 7. sympathetic

_____ 8. compassionate

_____ 9. assertive

_____ 10. sensitive to the needs of others

_____ 11. dominant

_____ 12. sincere

_____ 13. gentle

_____ 14. willing to take a stand

_____ 15. warm

_____ 16. tender

_____ 17. friendly

_____ 18. acts as a leader

_____ 19. aggressive

_____ 20. competitive

Scoring:

For your assertiveness score, add responses to items 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 14, 18, and 20.

For your responsiveness score, add responses to items 1, 4, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17.

Sources:

McCroskey, J. C., & Richmond, V. P. (1996). Fundamentals of human communication: An interpersonal perspective. Prospect Heights, IL: Waveland Press.

Richmond, V. P., & McCroskey, J. C. (1990). Reliability and separation of factors on the assertiveness-responsiveness scale. Psychological Reports, 67, 449-450.