Abstract
In this chapter the more important psychometric measures of the sensation seeking construct are described. The sensation seeking personality trait was proposed by Marvin Zuckerman at the beginning of the 1960s and, since then, several measures have been developed by this author and other different authors. This trait is involved in many human behavioral traits and was originally based on the optimal level of (cortical) arousal theory as an explanation of individual differences in the interaction between intensity of sensory stimulation and arousal. Later theory focused on three limbic systems and their monoamine neurotransmitters and their regulating enzymes. Zuckerman’s Sensation Seeking Scales (SSS) evolved from Form II to Form VI, but the most widely used has been Form V. Later, Zuckerman and Kuhlman developed a model of five basic personality factors, one of which was called Impulsive Sensation Seeking (ImpSS, Zuckerman–Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire; ZKPQ, 89-items). Recently, Aluja et al. have elaborated a new version based on the old ZKPQ called Zuckerman–Kuhlman–Aluja Personality Questionnaire (ZKA-PQ) that provides 20 facets organized in five factors and 200-items. The ZKA-PQ includes the five basic factors of the Zuckerman’s personality model (Aggressiveness, Neuroticism, Activity, Extraversion and Sensation Seeking). Each factor has four facets and the Sensation Seeking factor was composed of the following: SS1 (Thrill and Adventure Seeking), SS2 (Experience Seeking), SS3 (Disinhibition) and SS4 (Boredom Susceptibility/Impulsivity). This chapter provides information on the research and psychometric properties of the various SS scales and similar scales developed by other investigators. Most studies published before 1991 are covered in Zuckerman’s (1994) book.
Published Version
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