2021 Merit Principles Survey

Dear Federal Colleague:

 Your opinion counts! The U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) asks that you take a little time to 

participate in our 2021 Merit Principles Survey. This Governmentwide survey of Federal employees and 

supervisors assesses how well agencies manage their workforce, avoid prohibited personnel practices, and address 

sexual harassment in the workplace. In addition, given the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on where and 

how we do our work, the survey includes a few questions that address the effects of the pandemic. 

 Because you are part of a random sample of Government employees, your views about your work and work 

environment will represent those of the larger Federal workforce. This is an opportunity for you to inform policy 

by voicing your opinions and concerns about workforce issues. Your responses, which are voluntary and strictly 

confidential, will help us make recommendations to the President, Congress, agency leaders, and other decision 

makers on how to improve the Federal workplace. The information you share will make a positive difference! 

 On average, the survey will take about 30 minutes to complete. It may be completed at your work site or at home 

and you may leave the survey and return to finish it by clicking on the link sent to you. If you have questions or 

trouble navigating this survey, please email us at MPS2021@mspb.gov. Also, you can view a fact sheet with more 

information about the survey at www.mspb.gov/studies/surveys.htm.

 Sincerely,

 U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board

NOTE: This document is a representation of the actual survey, which was administered online, rather than an exact reproduction. For 

example, it uses modified typefaces and formatting for readability, eliminates most graphic elements such as check boxes and radio 

buttons, and adds annotations and metadata (such as variable names and data values from the public release dataset) to aid in staff and 

public use of the survey data.

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MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 1/23
2021 Merit Principles Survey 

General Information

Privacy Statement

Definition of Survey Terms

Organization means an agency, office, or division.

Work unit means an employee's immediate work unit headed by the employee's direct supervisor.

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Authority. Collection of the information is authorized by 5 U.S.C. §§ 1204 and 1206, which requires the Merit Systems 

Protection Board (MSPB) to conduct special studies relating to the civil service and to other merit systems in the executive 

branch.

Principal purpose(s). The purpose of collecting this information is to study how well the Federal Government is managing 

its workforce in adherence to the merit system principles. Only MSPB staff and our survey support contractor staff will have 

access to individually completed surveys. A de-identified summary of the results may be shared with the President of the 

United States, Congress, and other Federal decision-makers to be used in developing policy that supports both merit and 

mission accomplishment. Any reports issued following survey administration will contain only aggregated data and cannot be 

used to identify individual participants.

Routine use(s). No data will be disclosed that could be used to identify individual participants, except as generally permitted 

under 5 U.S.C. § 552a(b) of the Privacy Act of 1974. This includes sharing the information as necessary and authorized by 

routine uses in MSPB’s System of Records Notice, MSPB–2, Surveys for Special Studies of the Civil Service.

Disclosure. Your responses to this survey are completely voluntary; there is no penalty if you choose not to participate. 

However, we encourage your participation to ensure that our data is complete and representative of the Federal work force.

Non-Endorsement. Any reference in this survey to any person, or organization, or activities, products, or services related to 

such person or organization, or any link from this survey to the web site of another party, does not constitute or imply the 

endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of the U.S. Government, the MSPB, or any of its employees or contractors acting 

on its behalf.

Leaders are an agency's management team. This includes anyone with supervisory or managerial duties including 

supervisors, managers, and executives. 

Team leaders are those who provide employees with day-to-day guidance in work projects, but do not have 

supervisory responsibilities or conduct performance appraisals.

Executives are members of the Senior Executive Service or equivalent.

Managers are supervisors over supervisors who are not executives.

Supervisors are first-line supervisors who do not supervise other supervisors; typically those who are responsible for 

employees' performance appraisals and approval of their leave.

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 2/23
Your Experience at Work

Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

ENG_01 My agency is successful at accomplishing its mission. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_02 The work I do is meaningful to me. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_03 My work unit produces high quality products and services. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_04 I would recommend my agency as a place to work. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_05 Overall, I am satisfied with my supervisor. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_06 Overall, I am satisfied with managers above my immediate supervisor. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_07 I know what is expected of me on the job. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_08 My job makes good use of my skills and abilities. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_09 I have the resources to do my job well. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_10 I have sufficient opportunities (such as challenging assignments or 

projects) to earn a high performance rating. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_11 Recognition and rewards are based on performance in my work unit. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_12 I am satisfied with the recognition and rewards I receive for my work. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_13 I am given a real opportunity to improve my skills in my organization. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_14 I am treated with respect at work. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_15 My opinions count at work. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ENG_16 A spirit of cooperation and teamwork exists in my work unit. 5 4 3 2 1 990

Please indicate your agreement or disagreement with each of the following statements.

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MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 3/23
Adhering to Merit System Principles

Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

MSP_01 ...uses the workforce efficiently and effectively. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_02 ...eliminates unnecessary functions and positions. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_03 ...focuses employee attention and efforts on what is most important. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_04 ...makes good use of employees' skills and talents. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_05 ...addresses poor performers effectively. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_06 ...provides employees with the resources needed to get the job done. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_07 ...retains its best employees. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_08 ...holds employees to high standards of conduct. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_09 ...puts the public interest first. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_10 ...provides employees with necessary training. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_11 ...provides employees with opportunities for growth and development. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_12 ...recognizes excellent performance. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_13 ...does not engage in favoritism. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_14 ...protects employees against arbitrary action. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_15 ...holds fair and open competition for job vacancies. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_16 ...selects the best-qualified candidates when filling jobs. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_17 ...recruits a diverse pool of applicants for job vacancies. 5 4 3 2 1 990

MSP_18 ...pays employees fairly. 5 4 3 2 1 991

MSP_Skill_Text In a brief phrase or sentence (20 words or less) tell us which one of your 

skills and abilities is best used in your organization.

My organization...

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MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 4/23
Organizational Climate

Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

ETH_01 Supervisors and managers at my agency demonstrate ethical behavior. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ETH_02 In my job, I am sometimes put under pressure to break the rules. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ETH_03 In my organization, ethical conduct is valued highly. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ETH_04 My senior leaders tolerate unethical supervisors. 5 4 3 2 1 990

ETH_05 In the past 4 months, a supervisor or manager discussed organizational 

ethics or values with employees. 5 4 3 2 1 990

PPP-COVID

Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

PAN_01 My agency made appropriate decisions about the management of its 

workforce. 5 4 3 2 1 990

PAN_02 My agency kept me appropriately informed about important matters. 5 4 3 2 1 990

PAN_03 My supervisor showed concern for my personal welfare. 5 4 3 2 1 990

[End: web page 11]

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During the pandemic:

Please indicate your agreement or disagreement with each of the following statements.

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 5/23
Avoiding Prohibited or Improper Personnel Practices

Don't Know/NA ↓

I was personally affected by this ↓

This has occurred in my work unit, but I was not personally affected by this ↓ 

This has NOT occurred in my work unit ↓

PPP_01a Race 1 2 3 990

PPP_01b Religion 1 2 3 990

PPP_01c Sex 1 2 3 990

PPP_01d National origin 1 2 3 990

PPP_01e Age 1 2 3 990

PPP_01f Disabling condition 1 2 3 990

PPP_01g Marital status 1 2 3 990

PPP_01h Political affiliation 1 2 3 990

PPP_01i Sexual orientation 1 2 3 990

PPP_01j Status as a parent of caregiver 1 2 3 990

Don't Know/NA ↓

I was personally affected by this ↓

This has occurred in my work unit, but I was not personally affected by this ↓ 

This has NOT occurred in my work unit ↓

PPP_02 ... solicited or considered improper employment recommendations 1 2 3 990

PPP_03 ...tried to pressure someone to support or oppose a particular candidate 

or party for elected office. 1 2 3 990

PPP_04 ...obstructed someone’s right to compete for employment. 1 2 3 990

PPP_05 ...tried to influence someone to withdraw from competition for a 

position for the purpose of helping or injuring someone else’s chances. 1 2 3 990

PPP_06

...tried to define the scope or manner of a recruitment action, or the 

qualifications required, for the purpose of improving the chances of a 

particular person. 

1 2 3 990

Don't Know/NA ↓

I was personally affected by this ↓

This has occurred in my work unit, but I was not personally affected by this ↓ 

This has NOT occurred in my work unit ↓

IPP_07 ...advocated for the appointment, employment, promotion, or 

advancement of a personal friend of the agency official. 1 2 3 990

PPP_07 ...advocated for the appointment, employment, promotion, or 

advancement of a relative. 1 2 3 990

PPP_10 ...discriminated in favor or against someone in a personnel action on the 

basis of off-duty conduct which was entirely unrelated to the job. 1 2 3 990

PPP_11 ...knowingly violated a lawful form of veterans' preference or veterans' 

protection laws. 1 2 3 990

IPP_11 ...inappropriately favored a veteran. 1 2 3 990

[End: web page 13]

In the past 2 years, an agency official (e.g., supervisor, manager, senior leader, etc.) in my work unit has...

Please indicate whether the following has occurred: 

 In the past 2 years, an agency official (e.g., supervisor, manager, senior leader, etc.) in my work unit has discriminated in favor 

or against someone in a personnel action based upon...

[End: web page 12]

In the past 2 years, an agency official (e.g., supervisor, manager, senior leader, etc.) in my work unit has...

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 6/23
Don't Know/NA ↓

I was personally affected by this ↓

This has occurred in my work unit, but I was not personally affected by this ↓ 

This has NOT occurred in my work unit ↓

PPP_13 ... asked an employee to sign a non-disclosure agreement limiting the 

individual’s ability to blow the whistle on wrongdoing. 1 2 3 990

PPP_14 ...accessed the medical record of an employee or applicant in an attempt to 

commit a prohibited personnel practice. 1 2 3 990

Don't Know/NA ↓

I was personally affected by this ↓

This has occurred in my work unit, but I was not personally affected by this ↓ 

This has NOT occurred in my work unit ↓

PPP_08 ...disclosed a violation of law, rules, or regulations or reported fraud, 

waste, abuse, or a substantial and specific danger to public health or safety. 1 2 3 990

PPP_09a ...filed an appeal or grievance. 1 2 3 990

PPP_09d ...refused to violate a law, rule, or regulation. 1 2 3 990

A coworker. 1 OPP_01a_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01a_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01a_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01a_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01a_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01a_06

Other: 1 OPP_01a_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01a_08

[End: web page 17]

OPP_01a_* 

[End: web page 14]

In the past 2 years, an agency official (e.g., supervisor, manager, senior leader, etc.) in my work unit has...

[End: web page 15]

In the past 2 years, an agency official (e.g., supervisor, manager, senior leader, etc.) in my work unit took or threatened to take 

a personnel action against an employee because the employee...

[End: web page 16]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of race, please indicate who you believe was responsible. 

Select all that apply.

For each offense in the section above where a respondent indicated experiencing or observing a particular improper or prohibited 

personnel practice, respondents were asked who was responsible (OPP_ and TPP_ questions below).

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 7/23
A coworker. 1 OPP_01b_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01b_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01b_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01b_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01b_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01b_06

Other: 1 OPP_01b_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01b_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_01c_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01c_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01c_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01c_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01c_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01c_06

Other: 1 OPP_01c_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01c_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_01d_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01d_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01d_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01d_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01d_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01d_06

Other: 1 OPP_01d_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01d_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_01e_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01e_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01e_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01e_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01e_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01e_06

Other: 1 OPP_01e_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01e_08

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of religion, please indicate who you believe was 

responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_01b_* 

[End: web page 18]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of sex, please indicate who you believe was responsible. 

Select all that apply.

OPP_01c_* 

[End: web page 19]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of national origin, please indicate who you believe was 

responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_01d_* 

[End: web page 20]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of age, please indicate who you believe was responsible. 

Select all that apply.

OPP_01e_* 

[End: web page 21]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 8/23
A coworker. 1 OPP_01f_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01f_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01f_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01f_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01f_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01f_06

Other: 1 OPP_01f_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01f_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_01g_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01g_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01g_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01g_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01g_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01g_06

Other: 1 OPP_01g_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01g_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_01h_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01h_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01h_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01h_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01h_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01h_06

Other: 1 OPP_01h_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01h_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_01i_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01i_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01i_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01i_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01i_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01i_06

Other: 1 OPP_01i_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01i_08

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of disabling condition, please indicate who you believe 

was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_01f_* 

[End: web page 22]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of marital status, please indicate who you believe was 

responsible. Select all that apply.

[End: web page 23]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of political affiliation, please indicate who you believe 

was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_01h_* 

[End: web page 24]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation, please indicate who you believe 

was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_01i_* 

[End: web page 25]

OPP_01g_* 

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 9/23
A coworker. 1 OPP_01j_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_01j_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_01j_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_01j_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_01j_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_01j_06

Other: 1 OPP_01j_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_01j_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_02_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_02_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_02_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_02_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_02_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_02_06

Other: 1 OPP_02_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_02_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_03_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_03_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_03_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_03_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_03_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_03_06

Other: 1 OPP_03_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_03_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_04_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_04_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_04_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_04_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_04_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_04_06

Other: 1 OPP_04_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_04_08

For the most recent incident of an official trying to pressure someone to support or oppose a particular candidate or party for 

elected office, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_03_*

[End: web page 28]

For the most recent incident of an official trying to obstruct someone’s right to compete for employment, please indicate who 

you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_04_*

[End: web page 29]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating on the basis of status as a parent or caregiver, please indicate who 

you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_01j_* 

[End: web page 26]

For the most recent incident of an official soliciting or considering improper employment recommendations, please indicate 

who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_02_*

[End: web page 27]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 10/23
A coworker. 1 OPP_05_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_05_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_05_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_05_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_05_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_05_06

Other: 1 OPP_05_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_05_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_06_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_06_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_06_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_06_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_06_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_06_06

Other: 1 OPP_06_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_06_08

A coworker. 1 TPP_07_01

A teamleader. 1 TPP_07_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 TPP_07_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 TPP_07_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 TPP_07_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 TPP_07_06

Other: 1 TPP_07_07

Don't Know/NA 1 TPP_07_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_07_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_07_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_07_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_07_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_07_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_07_06

Other: 1 OPP_07_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_07_08

For the most recent incident of an official trying to define the scope or manner of a recruitment action, or the qualifications 

required, for the purpose of improving the chances of a particular person, please indicate who you believe was responsible. 

Select all that apply.

OPP_06_*

[End: web page 31]

For the most recent incident of an official trying to advocate for the appointment, employment, promotion, or advancement 

of a personal friend, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

TPP_07_*

[End: web page 32]

For the most recent incident of an official trying to advocate for the appointment, employment, promotion, or advancement 

of a relative, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_07_*

[End: web page 33]

For the most recent incident of an official trying to influence someone to withdraw from competition for a position for the 

purpose of helping or injuring someone else’s chances, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_05_*

[End: web page 30]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 11/23
A coworker. 1 OPP_10_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_10_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_10_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_10_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_10_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_10_06

Other: 1 OPP_10_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_10_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_11_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_11_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_11_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_11_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_11_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_11_06

Other: 1 OPP_11_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_11_08

A coworker. 1 TPP_11_01

A teamleader. 1 TPP_11_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 TPP_11_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 TPP_11_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 TPP_11_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 TPP_11_06

Other: 1 TPP_11_07

Don't Know/NA 1 TPP_11_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_13_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_13_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_13_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_13_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_13_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_13_06

Other: 1 OPP_13_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_13_08

For the most recent incident of an official asking an employee to sign a non-disclosure agreement limiting the individual’s 

ability to blow the whistle on wrongdoing, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_13_*

[End: web page 37]

For the most recent incident of an official discriminating in favor or against someone in a personnel action on the basis of offduty conduct which was entirely unrelated to the job, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_10_*

[End: web page 34]

For the most recent incident of an official knowingly taking or trying to take a personnel action that violated a lawful form of 

veterans' preference or veterans' protection laws, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_11_*

[End: web page 35]

For the most recent incident of an official knowingly taking or trying to take a personnel action that inappropriately favored a 

veteran, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

TPP_11_*

[End: web page 36]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 12/23
A coworker. 1 OPP_14_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_14_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_14_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_14_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_14_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_14_06

Other: 1 OPP_14_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_14_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_08_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_08_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_08_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_08_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_08_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_08_06

Other: 1 OPP_08_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_08_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_09a_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_09a_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_09a_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_09a_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_09a_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_09a_06

Other: 1 OPP_09a_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_09a_08

A coworker. 1 OPP_09d_01

A teamleader. 1 OPP_09d_02

A first-line supervisor. 1 OPP_09d_03

A manager (a supervisor over supervisors who is not an executive). 1 OPP_09d_04

An executive or similarly high-ranking official. 1 OPP_09d_05

A human resources advisor or manager. 1 OPP_09d_06

Other: 1 OPP_09d_07

Don't Know/NA 1 OPP_09d_08

[End: web page 38]

For the most recent incident of an official taking or trying to take a personnel action in retaliation for disclosing a violation of 

law, rules, or regulations or reported fraud, waste, abuse, or a substantial and specific danger to public health or safety, please 

indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_08_* 

[End: web page 39]

PPPOFF_09a For the most recent incident of an official taking or trying to take a personnel action in retaliation for filing an 

appeal or grievance, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_09a_* 

[End: web page 40]

PPPOFF_09d For the most recent incident of an official taking or trying to take a personnel action in retaliation for a refusal 

to violate a law, rule, or regulation, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_09d_* 

For the most recent incident of an official accessing the medical record of an employee or applicant in an attempt to commit a 

prohibited personnel practice, please indicate who you believe was responsible. Select all that apply.

OPP_14_*

[End: web page 41]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 13/23
NDAs

Yes 1

No 0

Don’t Recall 993

No ↓

Yes ↓

NDA_02 Blow the whistle on wrongdoing? 1 0 993

NDA_03 Whistleblower protections if you made a disclosure of wrongdoing? 1 0 993

Yes 1

No 0

Don’t Recall 993

No ↓

Yes ↓

NDP_02 Blow the whistle on wrongdoing? 1 0 993

NDP_03 Whistleblower protections if you made a disclosure of wrongdoing? 1 0 993

Did the nondisclosure agreement state that the provisions did not supersede or alter your right to:

[End: web page 43]

In the past 2 years, has your agency informed you of a nondisclosure policy?

Don't Recall ↓

NDP_01

[End: web page 44]

Did the communication about the non-disclosure policy include that the policy did not supersede or alter your right to:

[End: web page 45]

Don't Recall ↓

In the past 2 years, has your agency asked you to enter into a nondisclosure agreement?

NDA_01 

[End: web page 42]

If yes, NDA_02 and NDA_03 will display.

If yes, NDP_02 and NDP_03 will display.

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 14/23
Preventing and Addressing Sexual Harassment

Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

SH_01 My agency takes sufficient steps to prevent sexual harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 990

Yes 1

No 0

Don't Know/NA 990

Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

SH_03a I am familiar with the contents of my agency's policy regarding sexual 

harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 990

SH_03b My agency's policy clearly communicates how employees should act to 

prevent and respond to sexual harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 990

SH_03c This policy is effective in preventing and addressing sexual harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 990

SH_03d My agency holds employees accountable for the requirements of this 

policy. 5 4 3 2 1 990

My agency has a policy prohibiting sexual harassment.

SH_02 

[End: web page 47]

Please indicate your agreement or disagreement with each of the following statements.

[End: web page 48]

[End: web page 46]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 15/23
Yes 1

No 0

Don't Know/NA 990

Written materials (e.g., policies, notices, letters, newsletter articles, posters. 1 SH_05a

Online delivery of recorded materials (e.g., videos, presentation slides, 

computer-based training modules). 1 SH_05b

Interactive webinars or video-teleconferences (e.g., interaction with a 

trainer in another location). 1 SH_05c

In-person training. 1 SH_05d

Other: 1 SH_05e

(Text entry to describe other training) (T) SH_05e_Text

Less than 15 minutes. 1

15 minutes - 1 hour. 2

More than 1 hour, but less than 4 hours. 3

4-8 hours. 4

More than 8 hours. 5

Don't Know/NA 990

What was the format of the training? Select all that apply.

SH_05*

[End: web page 50]

What was the length of the training?

SH_06

[End: web page 51]

Within the past 2 years, have you received training that is focused specifically on preventing sexual harassment? 

SH_04

[End: web page 49]

If yes, SH_05*, SH_06 and SH_07* are displayed.

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 16/23
Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

SH_07a This training clearly communicates how to prevent and respond to sexual 

harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 990

SH_07b This training is effective in preventing and addressing sexual harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 990

Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

SH_08 I am familiar with the formal complaint channels that are available to 

people who have experienced sexual harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 993

SH_09 If I filed an action charging sexual harassment, I am confident that it 

would be resolved in a fair and just manner by my agency. 5 4 3 2 1 993

SH_10

If a supervisor or manager in my organization was found to have 

committed sexual harassment, management would take appropriate action 

against that person. 

5 4 3 2 1 993

Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

SH_11 My work colleagues would stand up for someone who was experiencing 

sexual harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 990

SH_12 I would feel comfortable speaking up if I observed sexual harassment. 5 4 3 2 1 990

SH_13 My agency tolerates comments and actions of a sexual nature that I view 

as inappropriate in the workplace. 5 4 3 2 1 990

[End: web page 53]

Please indicate your agreement or disagreement with each of the following statements.

Please indicate your level of agreement or disagreement with the following statements.

[End: web page 52]

Please indicate your agreement or disagreement with each of the following statements.

[End: web page 54]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 17/23
More than Once ↓

Once ↓

Never ↓

SH_14a Unwelcome communications (e.g., emails, phone calls, text messages, 

social media contacts) of a sexual nature. 1 2 3

SH_14b Unwelcome invasion of personal space (e.g., touching, crowding, leaning 

over). 1 2 3

SH_14c Unwelcome sexually suggestive looks or gestures. 1 2 3

SH_14d Pressure for sexual favors. 1 2 3

SH_14e Pressure for dates. 1 2 3

SH_14f Unwelcome sexual teasing, jokes, comments or questions. 1 2 3

SH_14g Unwelcome exposure to sexually oriented material in any format (e.g., 

photos, videos, written material). 1 2 3

SH_14h Unwelcome exposure to sexually oriented conversations. 1 2 3

SH_14i Offer of preferential treatment in the workplace in exchange for sexual 

favors. 1 2 3

SH_14j Use of derogatory or unprofessional terms related to a person's gender. 1 2 3

SH_14k Stalking (unwanted intrusion into your personal life (e.g., physically or 

electronically)). 1 2 3

SH_14l Rape or sexual assault or attempted rape or sexual assault. 1 2 3

No ↓

Yes ↓

SH_15a I avoided the person(s). 1 0

SH_15b I asked/told the person(s) to stop. 1 0

SH_15c I threatened to tell or told others. 1 0

SH_15d I used an informal conflict resolution process, such as an Ombuds. 1 0

SH_15e I reported the behavior to a supervisor or manager. 1 0

SH_15f I contacted an EEO counselor. 1 0

SH_15g I filed a formal complaint, such as an EEO complaint or a grievance. 1 0

SH_15h I made a joke of the behavior. 1 0

SH_15i I went along with the behavior. 1 0

SH_15j I changed jobs/locations. 1 0

SH_15k I began teleworking more frequently. 1 0

SH_15l I ignored the behavior or did nothing. 1 0

SH_15m Other: 1 0

SH_15m_Text (Text entry to describe other action) (T)

If respondent selects "No" for SH_15g then SH_17* will display.

In the past 2 years have any of the following behaviors been directed at you by someone who was present (i.e., physically or 

electronically) in your workplace or connected to you through your work role? (Select all that apply.)

[End: web page 55]

Based on your responses to the prior questions, you indicated that you experienced one or more of these behaviors at least 

once within the past 2 years. Select the one experience that had the greatest impact on you and answer the questions in this 

section in terms of that experience.

What action(s) did you take? Select all that apply.

[End: web page 56]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 18/23
SH_16a I avoided the person(s). 1 2 3 990

SH_16b I asked/told the person(s) to stop. 1 2 3 990

SH_16c I threatened to tell or told others. 1 2 3 990

SH_16d I used an informal conflict resolution process, such as an Ombuds. 1 2 3 990

SH_16e I reported the behavior to a supervisor or manager. 1 2 3 990

SH_16f I contacted an EEO counselor. 1 2 3 990

SH_16g I filed a formal complaint, such as an EEO complaint or a grievance. 1 2 3 990

SH_16h I made a joke of the behavior. 1 2 3 990

SH_16i I went along with the behavior. 1 2 3 990

SH_16j I changed jobs/locations. 1 2 3 990

SH_16k I began teleworking more frequently. 1 2 3 990

SH_16l I ignored the behavior or did nothing. 1 2 3 990

SH_16m (Other action) 1 2 3 990

I did not think the incident was serious enough. 1 SH_17a

The behavior stopped. 1 SH_17b

My supervisor or management intervened. 1 SH_17c

I changed jobs. 1 SH_17d

I did not know how to file an EEO complaint. 1 SH_17e

I had concerns about the formal complaint process (e.g., confidentiality, 

how long it would take). 1 SH_17f

It could negatively affect my career (e.g., reprisal, being labelled a 

troublemaker by management). 1 SH_17g

I was concerned about how my peers would treat me. 1 SH_17h

I did not think the outcome would be worth the effort. 1 SH_17i

I intend to file a grievance or a formal complaint but I have not done so 

yet. 

1 SH_17j

Other: 1 SH_17k

(Text entry to describe "other" reason) (T) SH_17k_Text

[End: web page 57]

No Difference ↓

Worse ↓

Don't Know/NA ↓

Better ↓

If Yes, for each action, did it make the situation:

Why did you not file a formal EEO complaint or grievance about your experience? Select all that apply.

SH_17* 

[End: web page 58]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 19/23
Demographics

Less than 4 years. 1

4 to 11 years. 2

12 to 19 years. 3

20 to 27 years. 4

28 to 35 years. 5

More than 35 years. 6

$49,999 or less. 1

$50,000 to $74,999. 2

$75,000 to $99,999. 3

$100,000 to $149,999. 4

$150,000 or more. 5

Non-Supervisor (You don't supervise others) 1

Team leader (You provide employees with day-to-day guidance on work 

projects, but don't have supervisory responsibilities or conduct 

performance appraisals.) 

2

Supervisor (You assign work, evaluate employee performance, and 

approve or disapprove leave requests, but you don't supervise other 

supervisors.) 

3

Manager (You are in a management position and you supervise other 

supervisors.) 4

Executive (You are in the Senior Executive Service or equivalent and you 

supervise managers or other executives.) 5

Currently eligible. 1

Eligible within 1 year. 2

Eligible in 1-5 years. 3

Eligible in more than 5 years. 4

Not applicable. 5

When will you be eligible to retire from Federal service?

DEM_04

What is your supervisory status?

DEM_03

[End: web page 61]

[End: web page 62]

[End: web page 59]

How many years have you been a Federal civil service employee?

DEM_01

What is your annual salary, including locality pay but excluding any awards or bonuses?

DEM_02

[End: web page 60]

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 20/23
Don't Know/NA ↓

Strongly Disagree ↓

Disagree ↓

Neither Agree nor Disagree ↓

Agree ↓

Strongly Agree ↓

DEM_05a ...continue in your current job and role at the same level of responsibility. 5 4 3 2 1 990

DEM_05b ...take on new challenges, assignments, or roles in your current job. 5 4 3 2 1 990

DEM_05c ...take on higher-level technical responsibilities. 5 4 3 2 1 990

DEM_05d ...take on supervisory or managerial responsibilities. 5 4 3 2 1 990

DEM_05e ...reduce your work hours or responsibilities. 5 4 3 2 1 990

DEM_05f ...move to a different occupation or line of work. 5 4 3 2 1 990

DEM_05g ...move to a different organization or agency within the Federal 

Government. 5 4 3 2 1 990

DEM_05h ...resign from the Federal Government. 5 4 3 2 1 990

DEM_05i ...retire from the Federal Government. 5 4 3 2 1 990

Lowest possible. 1

Neither lowest nor highest possible. 2

Highest possible. 3

Not sure. 990

It was too low. 1

It was correct. 2

It was too high. 3

Not sure. 990

Yes 1

No 0

(Not checked) ↓

(Checked) ↓

DEM_09a American Indian or Alaska Native 1 0

DEM_09b Asian 1 0

DEM_09c Black or African American 1 0

DEM_09d Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 1 0

DEM_09e White 1 0

Are you Hispanic or Latino?

DEM_08

Which of the below best describes the last performance appraisal rating your agency gave to you?

DEM_06 

During the next 2 years, do you plan to...?

[End: web page 63]

[End: web page 65]

[End: web page 66]

[End: web page 67]

Are you...? (Please mark all that apply.)

[End: web page 64]

What is your opinion of the last performance rating you received?

DEM_07 

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 21/23
Female 1

Male 2

I prefer to self-identify. 995

I prefer not to say. 994

(Text entry for self-identification) (T) DEM_10_Text

Heterosexual or Straight 1

Lesbian or Gay 2

Bisexual 3

I prefer to self-identify. 995

I prefer not to say 994

(Text entry for self-identification) (T) DEM_11_Text

Yes 1

No 0

Other: 995

I prefer not to say 994

(Text entry for other identity) (T) DEM_12_Text

Male 1

Female 2

I prefer not to say 994

Substantially more males than females. 1

Slightly more males than females. 2

About the same number of males and females. 3

Slightly more females than males. 4

Substantially more females than males. 5

25 years or less. 1

26 to 29 years. 2

30 to 39 years. 3

40 to 49 years. 4

50 to 59 years. 5

60 to 64 years. 6

65 or older. 7

[End: web page 69]

DEM_12

[End: web page 68]

Is your immediate supervisor...?

DEM_13

[End: web page 70]

[End: web page 71]

DEM_14

[End: web page 72]

Are you...?

DEM_10 

Do you consider yourself to be...?

DEM_11 

Do you consider yourself to be transgender?

What is your age?

DEM_15

[End: web page 73]

Is your immediate work group (you and other employees who also report to your supervisor) composed of:

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 22/23
Less than a high school diploma 1

High school, equivalent diploma, or GED 2

Associate's college degree 3

Bachelor's college degree 4

Master's degree 5

Professional or academic doctorate degree (e.g., J.D., M.D., D.D.S., Ph.D., 

Ed.D.). 6

Yes, and it substantially limits one or more major life activities. Major life 

activities may include walking, seeing, standing, sitting, breathing, bathing, 

etc.

1

Yes, but it does not affect a major life activity. 2

No 3

I prefer not to say. 994

1 days per week. 1

2 days per week. 2

3 days per week. 3

4 days per week. 4

5 day per week. 5

I did not telework regularly. 6

I was not eligible to telework. 7

I chose not to telework. 8

DEM_19_Text (T)

DEM_20_Text (T)

[End: web page 77]

Thank you for completing the 2021 Merit Principles Survey.

For more information on the U.S. Merit Systems Protection Board and to view some of our previous studies: 

https://www.mspb.gov/studies/index.htm

If you know your four-digit occupational series number, please enter it below. If your series has fewer than four digits, please 

add leading zeros. For example, enter 343 as 0343.

DEM_16

Do you have a physical or mental impairment or disability?

DEM_17

The next question is about telework. Telework includes work from home or at a location such as a telework center. It does 

not include field work. How many days per week did you typically telework before the COVID-19 pandemic?

DEM_18

[End: web page 74]

[End: web page 75]

The following two questions ask about your official occupation as a Federal employee. Please enter your official occupational 

title below:

[End: web page 76]

What is the highest level of education you have completed?

MSPB - 2021 Merit Principles Survey - Representation with Variable Names and Coding 23/23