This study aims at examining whether the effect of the direction of the response scale (from negative to positive or from positive to negative) varies between modes (face-to-face and internet). Using data from the American National Election Study, we answer this research question focusing on attitudinal items with a 5-point scale. We find that depending on the mode the direction of the scale impacts on response. Moreover, we report findings that take into account respondent's background and we conclude with a discussion on the implications of the findings on survey design.