Rensis Likert | |
|---|---|
 Likert at the University of Michigan Institute for Social Research in 1961 | |
| Born | August 5, 1903 |
| Died | September 3, 1981 (aged 78) |
| Resting place | Forest Hill Cemetery (Ann Arbor, Michigan) (Lot 50, Number 8) |
| Alma mater | University of Michigan Columbia University |
| Employer(s) | USDA University of Michigan |
| Known for | Likert Scale, Likert's Management Systems, Linking pin model |
| Spouse | Jane Gibson Likert |
Rensis Likert (/ˈlɪkərt/ LIK-ərt; August 5, 1903 – September 3, 1981) was an American organizational and social psychologist known for developing the Likert scale, a psychometrically sound scale based on responses to multiple questions. The scale has become a method to measure people's thoughts and feelings from opinion surveys to personality tests. Likert also founded the theory of participative management, which is used to engage employees in the workplace. Likert's contributions in psychometrics, research samples, and open-ended interviewing have helped form and shape social and organizational psychology.
In 1926, Likert earned a B.A. in Economics and Sociology from the University of Michigan; in 1932 he earned a Ph.D. in Psychology from Columbia University. He worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture until 1946. During World War II, Likert transitioned to working for the Office of War Information (OWI).[1] At the OWI, he was appointed head of the United States Strategic Bombing Survey Morale Division (USSBS) in 1944.[1]
After retiring at the age of 67, he formed Rensis Likert Associates, an institution based on his theories of management in organizational psychology. He is the author of numerous books about management, conflict, and behavioral research applications, including Human Organization: Its Management and Value and New Ways of Managing Conflict.
- ^ a b Capshew, James (13 January 1999). Psychologists on the March. Cambridge: Cambridge. ISBN 0-521-56585-5.