A Variation of VIA Questionnaire Format

Introduction

As the exact questions from the official VIA questionnaire are not publicly released because they are copyrighted and controlled by the VIA Institute on Character to protect the scientific validity of the instrument, below is an indication of types of questions used.

Representative Format

• 120–240 statements
• Respondents rate each statement on a 5-point Likert scale:

1 Very much like me

2 Like me

3 Neutral

4 Unlike me

5 Very much unlike me

• Questions prompt consideration of:

1 Typical behaviour

2 Natural preferences

3 Emotional responses

4 Moral tendencies

Each strength is measured by 5–10 items internally.

Representative of Sample Questions by Strength

(Educational/leadership-use paraphrased examples)

1. Wisdom Strengths

Creativity

• “I enjoy coming up with new and original ways to solve problems.”

Curiosity

• “I actively seek out new experiences and information.”

Judgment (Critical Thinking)

• “I carefully examine both sides of an issue before deciding.”

Love of Learning

• “I feel excited when I get the chance to learn something new.”

Perspective

• “Others often seek my advice on difficult situations.”

2. Courage Strengths

Bravery

• “I speak up for what is right, even when it is unpopular.”

Perseverance

• “I finish what I start, even when it becomes difficult.”

Honesty (Integrity)

• “I am truthful in my actions and words.”

Zest

• “I approach life with energy and enthusiasm.”

3. Humanity Strengths

Love

• “I form close, meaningful relationships with others.”

Kindness

• “I willingly go out of my way to help people.”

Social Intelligence

• “I am sensitive to the feelings and needs of others.”

4.Justice Strengths

Teamwork

• “I work well as part of a group and contribute fairly.”

Fairness

• “I treat all people equally, regardless of differences.”

Leadership

• “I naturally take responsibility for helping groups succeed.”

5. Temperance Strengths

Forgiveness

• “I am able to let go of resentment toward those who wrong me.”

Humility

• “I do not seek attention for my accomplishments.”

Prudence

• “I think carefully about the consequences before I act.”

Self-Regulation

• “I control my impulses and emotions well.”

6. Transcendence Strengths

Appreciation of Beauty & Excellence

• “I often notice and feel moved by beauty in the world.”

Gratitude

• “I regularly feel thankful for what I have.”

Hope

• “I expect good things to happen in the future.”

Humour

• “I enjoy making others laugh and seeing the light side of life.”

Spirituality

• “My beliefs give meaning and purpose to my life.”

(main source: Christopher Peterson et al, 2004)