Perceived Political Efficacy Scale Test

This self-report measure assesses an individual’s perceived ability to influence political processes and the perceived responsiveness of political institutions. The Perceived Political Efficacy Scale is commonly used in survey research to quantify attitudes related to political participation and agency.

The instrument includes 9 items and typically takes about 2 minutes to complete. Content is generally understood to reflect internal political efficacy (confidence in one’s own political competence) and external political efficacy (belief that the political system is responsive), with some applications also considering perceived collective influence. Originally described by Angus Campbell, Gerald Gurin, and Warren E. Miller, the Perceived Political Efficacy Scale yields a brief index that can support group comparisons and analyses of correlates of civic engagement in research settings.