A Novel Measure of the Need for Moral Cognition

Abstract

This research developed the first measure of the need for moral cognition, or the tendency to seek out, talk about, reflect on, or otherwise engage with ethical or moral issues. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was conducted on transcripts from interviews with members of the target population and focus groups with content experts. Pilot items were administered to a large online sample; 2 latent factors were identified. Scores were assessed for test–retest reliability, and convergent-, discriminant-, and criterion-validity. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that the Need for Moral Cognition scale is a valid and reliable measure suitable for use in psychological research.