School Prayer, Attitude about - Measurement Concept
Measures one's support or opposition to prayer in public schools58 Questions match selected parameters.
Survey Questions
PRAYSCHL from Baylor Religion Survey, Wave II (2007)Q37m. To what extent do you agree or disagree that the federal government should allow prayer in public schools?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly disagree | 190 | 11.8 |
2) Disagree | 219 | 13.5 |
3) Agree | 519 | 32.1 |
4) Strongly agree | 598 | 37.0 |
8) Undecided | 89 | 5.5 |
Missing | 35 | |
Total | 1616 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2007 |
Cases: | 1648 |
Variables: | 318 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mixed Mode |
Which do you think -- schools should be allowed to start each day with a prayer or religion does not belong in the schools?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Schools should be allowed to start with prayer | 5001 | 60.3 |
5) Religion does not belong in the school | 1286 | 15.5 |
8) Other; depends; both (1964-1968); DK; no interest | 1238 | 14.9 |
9) NA opinion; DK/NA if interested; no Post IW; abbrev. telephone IW (1984) | 765 | 9.2 |
Missing | 39148 | |
Total | 8290 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2004 |
Cases: | 47438 |
Variables: | 950 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Other: Some years used telephone interviews, others used face-to-face interviews |
Which of the following views comes closest to your opinion on the issue of school prayer?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
0) NA; no Post IW; form A (1990); short form IW (1992) | 1917 | 14.2 |
1) By law, prayer should not be allowed in public schools | 1416 | 10.5 |
2) The law should allow public schools to schedule time when children can pray silently if they want to | 5863 | 43.5 |
3) The law should allow public schools to schedule time when children as a group can say a general prayer not tied to a particular religious faith | 2836 | 21.1 |
4) By law, public schools should schedule a time when all children would say a chosen Christian prayer | 1107 | 8.2 |
9) Other, DK | 332 | 2.5 |
Missing | 33967 | |
Total | 13471 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2004 |
Cases: | 47438 |
Variables: | 950 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Other: Some years used telephone interviews, others used face-to-face interviews |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this? Do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
0) Inapplicable | 1605 | 32.7 |
1) Approve | 1357 | 27.7 |
2) Disapprove | 1811 | 37.0 |
8) Don't know | 126 | 2.6 |
9) No answer | 2 | 0.0 |
Total | 4901 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2010 |
Cases: | 4901 |
Variables: | 1221 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this? Do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
0) Inapplicable | 1227 | 34.5 |
1) Approve | 919 | 25.8 |
2) Disapprove | 1315 | 36.9 |
8) Don't know | 98 | 2.8 |
Total | 3559 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2008 |
Cases: | 3559 |
Variables: | 898 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this--do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 319 | 35.2 |
2) Disapprove | 558 | 61.6 |
8) No opinion | 28 | 3.1 |
9) No answer | 1 | 0.1 |
Missing | 1906 | |
Total | 906 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2004 |
Cases: | 2812 |
Variables: | 1174 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this--do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 796 | 40.0 |
2) Disapprove | 1094 | 54.9 |
8) No opinion | 101 | 5.1 |
9) No answer | 1 | 0.1 |
Missing | 2518 | |
Total | 1992 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2006 |
Cases: | 4510 |
Variables: | 1232 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
Agree/Disagree: The public schools should start each day with religious prayer. (88, 96)
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
-1) RF/DK | 64 | 4.8 |
0) Disagree | 517 | 38.9 |
1) Agree | 749 | 56.3 |
Missing | 17213 | |
Total | 1330 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2010 |
Cases: | 17898 |
Variables: | 770 |
Scope: | Single Sample |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Agree/Disagree: The public schools should permit religious prayers to be delivered at official school functions. (00)
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
-1) RF/DK | 30 | 4.6 |
0) Disagree | 143 | 22.0 |
1) Agree | 477 | 73.4 |
Missing | 17893 | |
Total | 650 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2010 |
Cases: | 17898 |
Variables: | 770 |
Scope: | Single Sample |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Teachers or other public school officials should be allowed to lead prayers in school.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 458 | 45.1 |
2) Mildly agree | 177 | 17.4 |
3) Mildly disagree | 143 | 14.1 |
4) Strongly disagree | 213 | 21.0 |
99) Don't know/refused | 24 | 2.4 |
Total | 1015 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2000 |
Cases: | 1015 |
Variables: | 98 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Please tell me whether you agree or disagree with each of the following statements: It's O.K. for a prayer to be said at a high school graduation if a majority of the graduating class favors it.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 608 | 59.9 |
2) Mildly agree | 202 | 19.9 |
3) Mildly disagree | 79 | 7.8 |
4) Strongly disagree | 111 | 10.9 |
99) Don't know/refused | 15 | 1.5 |
Total | 1015 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2000 |
Cases: | 1015 |
Variables: | 98 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Please tell me whether you agree or disagree with each of the following statements: Students should be allowed to lead prayers over the public address system at public school-sponsored events such as football games.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 427 | 42.1 |
2) Mildly agree | 198 | 19.5 |
3) Mildly disagree | 154 | 15.2 |
4) Strongly disagree | 216 | 21.3 |
99) Don't know/refused | 20 | 2.0 |
Total | 1015 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2000 |
Cases: | 1015 |
Variables: | 98 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this--do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 688 | 36.7 |
2) Disapprove | 1087 | 57.9 |
8) No opinion | 94 | 5.0 |
9) No answer | 8 | 0.4 |
Missing | 940 | |
Total | 1877 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2000 |
Cases: | 2817 |
Variables: | 1065 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this--do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 341 | 37.6 |
2) Disapprove | 518 | 57.0 |
8) No opinion | 49 | 5.4 |
Missing | 1857 | |
Total | 908 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2002 |
Cases: | 1004 |
Variables: | 2765 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
Q39 To what extent do you agree or disagree that the federal government should..m. Allow prayer in public schools
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 608 | 35.9 |
2) Agree | 548 | 32.3 |
3) Disagree | 179 | 10.6 |
4) Strongly disagree | 256 | 15.1 |
5) Undecided | 104 | 6.1 |
Missing | 26 | |
Total | 1695 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2005 |
Cases: | 1721 |
Variables: | 395 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mixed Mode |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this -- do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 367 | 39.5 |
2) Disapprove | 517 | 55.7 |
8) No opinion | 42 | 4.5 |
9) No answer | 2 | 0.2 |
Missing | 444 | |
Total | 928 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1990 |
Cases: | 1372 |
Variables: | 745 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this--do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 780 | 39.8 |
2) Disapprove | 1099 | 56.1 |
8) No opinion | 79 | 4.0 |
9) No answer | 2 | 0.1 |
Missing | 944 | |
Total | 1960 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 2904 |
Variables: | 1051 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this--do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 392 | 38.3 |
2) Disapprove | 594 | 58.0 |
8) No opinion | 35 | 3.4 |
9) No answer | 3 | 0.3 |
Missing | 493 | |
Total | 1024 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1991 |
Cases: | 1481 |
Variables: | 758 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
Now, please tell me whether you agree or disagree with the following statements: Teachers and other public school officials should be allowed to lead prayers in public school.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 352 | 35.1 |
2) Mildly agree | 169 | 16.8 |
3) Mildly disagree | 162 | 16.2 |
4) Strongly disagree | 298 | 29.7 |
9) Don't know/Refused | 22 | 2.2 |
Total | 1003 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2005 |
Cases: | 1003 |
Variables: | 71 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this--do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 368 | 37.2 |
2) Disapprove | 581 | 58.8 |
8) No opinion | 37 | 3.7 |
9) No answer | 2 | 0.2 |
Missing | 493 | |
Total | 988 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1988 |
Cases: | 1481 |
Variables: | 660 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
In your opinion, should there be daily prayers in all public schools?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Yes, definitely | 466 | 34.3 |
2) Yes, probably | 300 | 22.1 |
3) No, probably | 201 | 14.8 |
4) No, definitely | 236 | 17.4 |
8) Can't choose | 135 | 9.9 |
9) No answer | 21 | 1.5 |
Missing | 158 | |
Total | 1359 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1991 |
Cases: | 1481 |
Variables: | 758 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
50a. According to rulings by the U.S. Supreme Court, is a public school teacher permitted to lead a class in prayer, or not?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Yes, permitted | 6.1 | |
2) No, not permitted | 89.0 | |
8) Don't know | 4.9 | |
9) Refused | 0.1 | |
Total | 3412 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2010 |
Cases: | 3412 |
Variables: | 120 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Please tell me how much you think each of the following would help to improve things in this country. How about . . . e. if organized prayer were allowed in the public schools? Would that help a lot, somewhat, only a little or not at all?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Help a lot | 655 | 33.6 |
2) Help somewhat | 607 | 31.1 |
3) Help only a little | 362 | 18.6 |
4) Help not at all | 325 | 16.7 |
Missing | 98 | |
Total | 1949 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 2047 |
Variables: | 497 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
Since our founding, different levels of our government have had different responsibilities. For each of the following, I want you to tell me whether you think it should be mainly the responsibility of the federal government in Washington, the state government in [respondent's state], your local government, or private organizations. Or do you think it should be mainly left up to individuals? I. Deciding when prayer is permissible in the public schools
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Federal government | 500 | 28.8 |
2) State government | 407 | 23.5 |
3) Local government | 378 | 21.8 |
4) Private organizations | 51 | 2.9 |
5) Individuals | 399 | 23.0 |
Missing | 312 | |
Total | 1735 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 2047 |
Variables: | 497 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
I'm going to read you some proposals that are now being discussed nationally. As I read each one, please select the number that best expresses how much you favor or oppose it. If you don't really care about the issue, please say so. C. Allowing voluntary prayer in the public schools
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly oppose | 150 | 7.6 |
2) 2 | 58 | 3.0 |
3) 3 | 81 | 4.1 |
4) Neutral | 349 | 17.8 |
5) 5 | 202 | 10.3 |
6) 6 | 251 | 12.8 |
7) Strongly favor | 872 | 44.4 |
Missing | 84 | |
Total | 1963 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 2047 |
Variables: | 497 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
If an amendment allowing communities to decide on school prayer were approved, it would be the first time any of the freedoms in the First Amendment have been amended in over 200 years. Knowing this, would you still support an amendment to let local communities decide on prayer in their local schools?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Yes | 381 | 90.3 |
2) No | 26 | 6.2 |
9) Don't know/Refused | 15 | 3.6 |
Missing | 603 | |
Total | 422 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1997 |
Cases: | 1025 |
Variables: | 108 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: It's OK for a prayer to be said at a high school graduation ceremony if a majority of the graduation class favors it. PROBE: Do you strongly or mildly (agree/disagree) with this?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 643 | 62.8 |
2) Mildly agree | 186 | 18.2 |
3) Mildly disagree | 83 | 8.1 |
4) Strongly disagree | 100 | 9.8 |
9) Don't know/Refused | 12 | 1.2 |
Missing | 1 | |
Total | 1024 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1997 |
Cases: | 1025 |
Variables: | 108 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
I'm going to read you some ways people might exercise their First Amendment right of freedom of religion. For each, tell me if you agree or disagree that someone should be free to do it. Teachers or other public school officials should be allowed to lead prayers in school. Do you agree or disagree that people should be free to do this? PROBE: do you strongly or mildly (agree/disagree)?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 395 | 38.6 |
2) Mildly agree | 200 | 19.5 |
3) Mildly disagree | 143 | 14.0 |
4) Strongly disagree | 269 | 26.3 |
9) Don't know/Refused | 17 | 1.7 |
Missing | 1 | |
Total | 1024 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1997 |
Cases: | 1025 |
Variables: | 108 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Some people feel that the U.S. Constitution should be amended to let local communities decide on whether or not prayer should be allowed in public schools. Others say that the U.S. Constitution should not be amended to allow local communities to decide on prayer in the schools. Do you think the U.S. Constitution should or should not be amended to allow local communities to decide on prayer in the schools?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Should be amended | 422 | 41.2 |
2) Should not be amended | 576 | 56.2 |
9) Don't know/Refused | 27 | 2.6 |
Total | 1025 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1997 |
Cases: | 1025 |
Variables: | 108 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this--do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 794 | 42.4 |
2) Disapprove | 988 | 52.8 |
8) No opinion | 85 | 4.5 |
9) No answer | 4 | 0.2 |
Missing | 961 | |
Total | 1871 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1998 |
Cases: | 2832 |
Variables: | 858 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
Teachers or other public school officials should be allowed to lead prayers in school.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 444 | 45.1 |
2) Mildly agree | 208 | 21.2 |
3) Mildly disagree | 153 | 15.5 |
4) Strongly disagree | 179 | 18.2 |
Missing | 18 | |
Total | 984 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1999 |
Cases: | 1001 |
Variables: | 121 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Students should be allowed to lead prayers over the public address system at public school-sponsored events such as football games.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 408 | 40.3 |
2) Mildly agree | 167 | 16.5 |
3) Mildly disagree | 145 | 14.3 |
4) Strongly disagree | 278 | 27.5 |
99) Don't know/Refused | 14 | 1.4 |
Total | 1012 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2001 |
Cases: | 1012 |
Variables: | 86 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
An amendment to the United States Constitution has been proposed that would permit prayers to be spoken in the public schools. Do you favor or oppose this amendment?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Favor | 455 | 69.9 |
2) Oppose | 145 | 22.3 |
3) Don't know/No answer | 50 | 7.7 |
Total | 651 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 1010 |
Variables: | 129 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Teachers or other public school officials should be allowed to lead prayers in school.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 379 | 37.5 |
2) Mildly agree | 168 | 16.6 |
3) Mildly disagree | 152 | 15.0 |
4) Strongly disagree | 290 | 28.7 |
99) Don't know/Refused | 22 | 2.2 |
Total | 1012 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 2001 |
Cases: | 1012 |
Variables: | 86 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Following is a list of statements which are made from time to time on current social and political issues. Please indicate your opinion of each in the usual manner -- Public schools should not conduct prayers for children; this is the responsibility of the home and the church
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree strongly | 155 | 16.8 |
2) Agree somewhat | 147 | 15.9 |
3) Disagree somewhat | 202 | 21.9 |
4) Disagree strongly | 388 | 42.0 |
5) No opinion | 32 | 3.5 |
Missing | 34 | |
Total | 924 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1969 |
Cases: | 958 |
Variables: | 267 |
Scope: | Other: Regional samples of Mormons in Salt Lake City, UT and San Francisco, CA |
Frame: | Denominations |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mailed |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this- do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 737 | 37.3 |
2) Disapprove | 1150 | 58.2 |
8) No opinion | 85 | 4.3 |
9) No answer | 5 | 0.3 |
Missing | 1015 | |
Total | 1977 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1994 |
Cases: | 2992 |
Variables: | 852 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
ASKED ONLY OF THOSE RESPONDENTS WHO ATTEND CHURCH AT LEAST ONCE OR TWICE A MONTH: Do you think it is a good thing or a bad thing that your clergy speaks out on this issue? -- Prayer in public schools
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Good thing | 91.7 | |
2) Bad thing | 4.9 | |
3) Neither a good nor a bad thing | 1.8 | |
4) Don't know/Refused | 1.6 | |
Missing | 1348 | |
Total | 627 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 1975 |
Variables: | 151 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Should public schools begin the day with a prayer?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Definitely yes | 83 | 27.8 |
2) Probably yes | 53 | 17.7 |
3) Unsure | 58 | 19.4 |
4) Probably not | 47 | 15.7 |
5) Definitely not | 58 | 19.4 |
Missing | 7 | |
Total | 299 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 306 |
Variables: | 46 |
Scope: | Other: The target population for this survey was students at Winthrop University, a state university in South Carolina |
Frame: | Other: Lower-division, general education classes |
Sample: | Unknown Sample Types |
Mode: | Other: Self-report questionnaire |
I'm going to read you four different beliefs about prayer in public school. Please tell me which one represents your own belief: 1) The first is: prayer should not be allowed in public schools. 2) The second is: schools should not sponsor prayer, but kids should be allowed to pray together in groups. 3) The third is: teachers should lead in moment of silence for unspoken prayers. 4) The last is: teachers should lead their classes in spoken Christian prayers.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Not allowed | 124 | 4.8 |
2) Unsponsored Kids Prayer | 957 | 36.9 |
3) Moment of silence | 979 | 37.8 |
4) Spoken Christian Prayer | 443 | 17.1 |
5) None of These (they must volunteer) | 34 | 1.3 |
6) DK | 42 | 1.6 |
7) Refused | 11 | 0.4 |
Total | 2590 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 2590 |
Variables: | 168 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Recently, groups of high school and college students have been holding prayer meetings at their schools' flag poles before school. Do you approve of such meetings?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Definitely yes | 189 | 62.8 |
2) Probably yes | 67 | 22.3 |
3) Unsure | 33 | 11.0 |
4) Probably not | 7 | 2.3 |
5) Definitely not | 5 | 1.7 |
Missing | 5 | |
Total | 301 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1996 |
Cases: | 306 |
Variables: | 46 |
Scope: | Other: The target population for this survey was students at Winthrop University, a state university in South Carolina |
Frame: | Other: Lower-division, general education classes |
Sample: | Unknown Sample Types |
Mode: | Other: Self-report questionnaire |
Do you mostly agree or mostly disagree with the following statement? - It's good for sporting events at public high schools to begin with a public prayer.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree | 1739 | 51.7 |
2) Disagree | 1266 | 37.6 |
8) Don't know | 358 | 10.6 |
Total | 3363 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1987 |
Cases: | 3363 |
Variables: | 109 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | Other: Additional interviews were conducted with seven leadership groups, including business executives, college professors, government leaders, newspaper editors and radio/TV news directors, Protestant ministers, Roman Catholic priests and rabbis. |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Do you mostly agree or mostly disagree with the following statement? - Public schools should set aside a moment of silence each day for students to pray if they want to.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree | 2353 | 70.0 |
2) Disagree | 848 | 25.2 |
8) Don't know | 162 | 4.8 |
Total | 3363 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1987 |
Cases: | 3363 |
Variables: | 109 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | Other: Additional interviews were conducted with seven leadership groups, including business executives, college professors, government leaders, newspaper editors and radio/TV news directors, Protestant ministers, Roman Catholic priests and rabbis. |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
The United States Supreme Court has ruled that no state or local government may require the reading of the Lord's Prayer or Bible verses in public schools. What are your views on this—do you approve or disapprove of the court ruling?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Approve | 423 | 39.2 |
2) Disapprove | 611 | 56.6 |
8) No opinion | 43 | 4.0 |
9) No answer | 3 | 0.3 |
Missing | 526 | |
Total | 1080 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1993 |
Cases: | 1606 |
Variables: | 651 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | In-Person |
Since a majority of Americans are religious, they have a right to expect their children to learn prayers in public school.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree | 846 | 31.1 |
2) Disagree | 1469 | 54.1 |
3) Uncertain | 402 | 14.8 |
Missing | 158 | |
Total | 2717 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1963 |
Cases: | 2875 |
Variables: | 629 |
Scope: | Regional Samples |
Frame: | Other: Members of the sampled congregations were randomly selected. |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mailed |
Because many children do not have religious parents, it is our duty to teach their children to pray in school.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree | 866 | 31.8 |
2) Disagree | 1403 | 51.6 |
3) Uncertain | 450 | 16.6 |
Missing | 156 | |
Total | 2719 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1963 |
Cases: | 2875 |
Variables: | 629 |
Scope: | Regional Samples |
Frame: | Other: Members of the sampled congregations were randomly selected. |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mailed |
Now I would like to ask you about your beliefs and values. For each of the following questions please indicate how much you agree or disagree with it. -- Teachers should be allowed to lead children in prayer in public schools.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly agree | 101 | 35.9 |
2) Somewhat agree | 101 | 35.9 |
3) Uncertain | 42 | 14.9 |
4) Somewhat disagree | 30 | 10.7 |
5) Strongly disagree | 7 | 2.5 |
Total | 281 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1981 |
Cases: | 281 |
Variables: | 104 |
Scope: | Single Sample |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mailed |
Do you agree or disagree: The Moral Majority preachers and Catholic bishops must educate people on their churches' point of view on issues like abortions and school prayer, even if this means getting churches involved in politics.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree | 445 | 33.7 |
2) Disagree | 811 | 61.3 |
3) Not sure | 66 | 5.0 |
Missing | 11 | |
Total | 1322 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1984 |
Cases: | 1333 |
Variables: | 137 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Now here is what this question comes down to - - the difference between churches taking a stand on an issue such as abortion and prayer, on the one hand, and urging their church members to vote for candidates who follow their church stands, on the other. Do you think it is fitting and proper or not for religious leaders to urge their church members to vote for specific candidates who follow their stands on issues such as banning abortion and requiring school prayer?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Fitting and proper | 363 | 27.4 |
2) Not fitting and proper | 931 | 70.2 |
3) Not sure | 32 | 2.4 |
Missing | 7 | |
Total | 1326 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1984 |
Cases: | 1333 |
Variables: | 137 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Now here is what this question comes down to - - the difference between churches taking a stand on an issue such as abortion and prayer, on the one hand, and urging their church members to vote for candidates who follow their church stands, on the other. Do you think it is fitting and proper or not for religious leaders to take stands on issues such as banning abortion ad requiring school prayer
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Fitting and proper | 697 | 52.6 |
2) Not fitting and proper | 585 | 44.1 |
3) Not sure | 44 | 3.3 |
Missing | 7 | |
Total | 1326 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1984 |
Cases: | 1333 |
Variables: | 137 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
As far as you personally are concerned, do you favor or oppose a constitutional amendment to require daily prayer to public school classrooms?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Favor | 481 | 36.3 |
2) Oppose | 777 | 58.7 |
3) Not sure | 66 | 5.0 |
Missing | 9 | |
Total | 1324 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1984 |
Cases: | 1333 |
Variables: | 137 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Today, there are evangelical preachers and some Catholic bishops in the country who have become involved in politics. They have a whole series of laws they want to see passed. Do you think it is fitting and proper or not for such religious leaders to urge members of their churches to vote for candidates who follow their stands on a constitutional amendment to require daily prayer to be recited in public school classrooms?
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Fitting and proper | 423 | 31.9 |
2) Not fitting and proper | 836 | 63.0 |
3) Not sure | 67 | 5.1 |
Missing | 7 | |
Total | 1326 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1984 |
Cases: | 1333 |
Variables: | 137 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Do you agree or disagree: The country is in such bad moral shape that Catholic bishops and evangelical preachers should make banning abortion and requiring school prayer major political issues that decide the election of 1984.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree | 194 | 14.6 |
2) Disagree | 1069 | 80.7 |
3) Not sure | 62 | 4.7 |
Missing | 8 | |
Total | 1325 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1984 |
Cases: | 1333 |
Variables: | 137 |
Scope: | U.S. Samples |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
Because not all Americans have the same religious beliefs, it would be better not to have prayers in the public schools.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree | 821 | 30.1 |
2) Disagree | 1616 | 59.2 |
3) Uncertain | 293 | 10.7 |
Missing | 145 | |
Total | 2730 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1963 |
Cases: | 2875 |
Variables: | 629 |
Scope: | Regional Samples |
Frame: | Other: Members of the sampled congregations were randomly selected. |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mailed |
Because of the separation of church and state, it is unconstitutional for any kind of prayers to be said in public schools.
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree | 522 | 19.4 |
2) Disagree | 1665 | 62.0 |
3) Uncertain | 498 | 18.5 |
Missing | 190 | |
Total | 2685 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1963 |
Cases: | 2875 |
Variables: | 629 |
Scope: | Regional Samples |
Frame: | Other: Members of the sampled congregations were randomly selected. |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mailed |
Following is a list of statements which are made from time to time on current social and political issues. Please indicate your opinion of each in the usual manner -- Public schools should not conduct prayers for children; this is the responsibility of the home and the church
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Agree strongly | 80 | 27.5 |
2) Agree somewhat | 57 | 19.6 |
3) Disagree somewhat | 65 | 22.3 |
4) Disagree strongly | 75 | 25.8 |
5) No opinion | 14 | 4.8 |
Missing | 5 | |
Total | 291 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1969 |
Cases: | 296 |
Variables: | 267 |
Scope: | Single Sample |
Frame: | Denominations |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Mailed |
The following are 8 possible concerns of people in America today. Please indicate how important each is to you. -- Bringing back prayer in schools
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Not important | 64 | 22.9 |
2) Somewhat important | 81 | 28.9 |
3) Very important | 135 | 48.2 |
Missing | 4 | |
Total | 280 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1982 |
Cases: | 284 |
Variables: | 141 |
Scope: | Single Sample |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
To what extent would you be for or against a law which stated that an adult can lead children in prayer in public schools? Would you be:
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly for this law | 152 | 40.1 |
2) Moderately for this law | 99 | 26.1 |
3) Neutral or undecided | 55 | 14.5 |
4) Moderately against this law | 30 | 7.9 |
5) Strongly against this law | 40 | 10.6 |
6) Don't know | 3 | 0.8 |
Total | 379 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1985 |
Cases: | 379 |
Variables: | 93 |
Scope: | Single Sample |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |
To what extent would you be for or against a law which stated that an adult can lead children in prayer in public schools? Would you be:
TOTAL | % | |
---|---|---|
1) Strongly for | 71 | 20.7 |
2) For | 109 | 31.8 |
3) Not sure | 80 | 23.3 |
4) Against | 43 | 12.5 |
5) Strongly against | 40 | 11.7 |
Missing | 8 | |
Total | 343 | 100.0 |
Survey Details | |
---|---|
Year: | 1984 |
Cases: | 351 |
Variables: | 61 |
Scope: | Single Sample |
Frame: | U.S. Adults |
Sample: | Random Samples |
Mode: | Phone |