Behavioral Inhibition

Title

Shyness Index

Study

PCS3

Primary Reference

Bell, I. R., Jasnoski, M. L., Kagan, J., & King, D. S. (1990). Is allergic rhinitis more frequent in young adults with extreme shyness? A preliminary survey. Psychosomatic Medicine, 52, 517-525.

Purpose

To assess individuals’ current levels of shyness and the extent to which they were shy or behaviorally inhibited during childhood.

Description

Using a 4-point discreet visual analog scale, participants indicate the frequency with which each of four self-referent statements describing feelings of shyness or social apprehension could apply to them now (i.e., as adults) or during childhood.

Scaling

1 = Rarely, 4 = Frequently

Number of Items

4

Sample Items

• “I feel shy with strangers.”
• “From 5 to 10 years of age, I was afraid of going to school.”

Psychometrics

Not available

Scoring/Variables

Total Shyness Score