A historic review and empirical revitalization of the Stages of Concern Questionnaire

Authors

Kent Anderson Seidel, University of Colorado DenverFollow

Short Title

Stages of Concern Questionnaire at 50 Years

Keywords

concerns, change, implementation, innovation, Stages of Concern, Concerns Based Adoption Model

Abstract

This paper examines one of three central diagnostic tools of the Concerns Based Adoption Model, the Stages of Concern Questionnaire (SoCQ). The SoCQ was developed with a focus on K12 education. It has been used widely since developed in 1973, in early childhood, higher education, medical, business, community, and military settings. The SoCQ captures data about beliefs and intentions of individuals regarding their engagement with a new program or practice.

In our search of publications utilizing the SoCQ, we have found studies conducted across the world, with approximately 400 based in the United States 100 conducted outside the US. In the datasets for this paper, we identified applications of the SoCQ to inform leadership of implementing innovations in nearly 1,000 sites between 2008 and 2023. This includes SoCQ administration in 42 US states, and approximately 150 uses outside the US. The SoCQ has been officially translated into nine languages in addition to English.

Few instruments have remained relevant as long as the SoCQ, and fewer still have an accessible record of publications and data to study for renewal. We report here an extensive review of use, validity, reliability, and practical advice for future use of the SoCQ.

Recommended Citation

Anderson Seidel, Kent (2025) "A historic review and empirical revitalization of the Stages of Concern Questionnaire," School Leadership Review: Vol. 20: Iss. 1, Article 8.
Available at: https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/slr/vol20/iss1/8