Barratt Impulsivity Scale Revised 21 (BIS-R-21)
What it is
The BIS-R-21 (Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-Revised, 21-item version) is a self-report questionnaire designed to measure impulsiveness in adults. Impulsiveness refers to a tendency to act on a whim, without thinking things through, which can impact daily life, decision-making, and mental health. The BIS-R-21 helps identify impulsive behaviors and patterns, providing insights into how someone might respond in different situations.
Originally developed by Dr. Ernest Barratt, the BIS has been widely used in both clinical and research settings to better understand impulsivity. The revised version, BIS-R-21, is a shorter, more streamlined version of the original scale, making it easier and faster to complete.
How is it used
The BIS-R-21 is suitable for adults and takes only about 5 minutes to complete. It includes questions that prompt individuals to reflect on how they typically behave in various situations, such as whether they act quickly without thinking or have trouble focusing on tasks. The scale can be used in clinical settings, therapy sessions, or even for self-reflection to explore impulsive behaviors that may affect areas like work, relationships, or self-control.
The BIS-R-21 is not a diagnostic tool on its own but can be a valuable part of a broader assessment, especially when exploring conditions related to impulsivity, such as ADHD, substance use disorders, or impulse-control disorders.
What do the scores mean?
The BIS-R-21 consists of 21 questions, with each question rated on a scale from 1 (rarely/never) to 4 (almost always/always). The responses are added up to give a total score, with higher scores indicating higher levels of impulsiveness.
The questionnaire covers three main areas of impulsivity: 1. Attentional Impulsiveness: Difficulty focusing or maintaining attention. 2. Motor Impulsiveness: Acting quickly without thinking about the consequences. 3. Non-planning Impulsiveness: A tendency to avoid planning ahead or considering the future.
Here’s a breakdown of how to interpret the total scores:
- 21 to 52: Indicates low levels of impulsiveness. This suggests that impulsive behaviors are unlikely to significantly affect daily life.
- 53 to 64: Reflects moderate levels of impulsiveness. The individual may experience some impulsive tendencies but generally manages them well.
- 65 and above: Suggests high levels of impulsiveness. This might indicate a pattern of behaviors that could benefit from further exploration or support.
What does the research say?
The BIS-R-21 is widely recognized as a reliable and valid tool for measuring impulsivity. It’s been used in numerous studies and clinical assessments, providing a solid foundation for understanding impulsive behaviors. The shorter, 21-item version retains the essential components of the original scale while being more convenient for quick screenings.
One of the strengths of the BIS-R-21 is its ability to capture different aspects of impulsivity, which is not just about acting quickly but also involves challenges with focus and planning. This makes it a valuable tool for gaining a fuller picture of someone’s impulsive tendencies and how they might impact their everyday life.
Developer
Kapitány-Fövény et al. (2020). The 21-item Barratt Impulsiveness Scale Revised (BIS-R-21): An alternative three-factor model. J Behav Addict. 2020 May 26;9(2):225-246.