Behavioral Inhibition/Activation System Scales

What it measures

Measures two neurobiological motivational systems derived from Gray's reinforcement sensitivity theory. BIS governs responses to punishment signals; BAS governs responses to reward and appetitive stimuli. Widely used in emotion, personality, and psychopathology research.

Response format

Likert (1–4, very true for me to very false for me)

Representative items

• If I think something unpleasant is going to happen I usually get pretty worked up. (BIS)
• When I want something I usually go all-out to get it. (BAS Drive)
• I often act on the spur of the moment. (BAS Fun Seeking)
• When I'm doing well at something I love to keep at it. (BAS Reward Responsiveness)
• Criticism or scolding hurts me quite a bit. (BIS)

Usage notes & scoring

Four subscale scores (BIS, Drive, Fun Seeking, Reward Responsiveness). Freely available from Charles Carver's website. Higher BIS = greater anxiety sensitivity; higher BAS = greater reward motivation.

Recommended companion scales

Citation

Carver, C.S., & White, T.L. (1994). Behavioral inhibition, behavioral activation, and affective responses to impending reward and punishment. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 67(2), 319–333.

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