Inventory of Attitude Towards Gender-Inclusive Language (ATGIL)

Abstract: Introduction: Promotion of gender-inclusive language has become a key political goal. Legal mandates have led to increased adoption in administration, but everyday use remains relatively uncommon. While the advantages of gender-inclusive language (greater sense of inclusion) are widely acknowledged, many individuals still refrain from actively using it. Reasons include cultural norms, habits, resistance to change, and personal values. Aim: Current instruments to assess the use of gender-inclusive language do not fully grasp the underlying reasons. Hence, their insights do not inform actionable measures to address the underlying reasons. We developed a comprehensive 21-item questionnaire that produces insights both on motivational aspects and level (emotion/cognition/behavior). Methods: The questionnaire follows the facet-theory approach and also includes a condensed 7-item version. The questionnaire was validated with data collected from two independent samples, comprising 279 participants. Results: The condensed 7-item version shows good reliability (Cronbach’s alpha .942) and excellent discriminant power ( r it ranging from .69 to .88). Conclusion: We recommend using this tool to evaluate the factors motivating the use of gender-inclusive language and to inform the development of strategies and measures aimed at promoting its wider adoption both in Germany and internationally.