Open-Closed Mindedness and Choice of University Programs

Comparisons between groups on the basis of dogmatic tendencies are traditionally made on the grounds of summated scores. Given the multidimensionality of the D-Scale, this study explored the possibility of group comparison on an item rather than a summated score basis. The Ss (N = 471: male 250, female 221) were enrolling in various first year university programs. Significant differences did occur in specific items of the D-Scale, and in particular between Ss enrolling in the Arts and the Science programs. Factor analysis of Ss' responses raised the possibility of the significantly different items defining a particular facet or aspect of dogmatism.