Scale Analysis

The Blushing Propensity Scale (BPS) is a tool used to assess an individual’s predisposition to blush in various social situations. It consists of nineteen statements related to the experience and reactions of blushing, such as frequency of occurrence, the embarrassment it causes, and the attempt to hide the blushing. Responses are given on a five-point scale, ranging from “Strongly disagree” (1) to “Strongly agree” (5). This scale enables researchers and mental health professionals to quantify the level of social embarrassment or anxiety associated with blushing and to identify situations in which individuals may experience greater psychological pressure. In this way, the Blushing Propensity Scale contributes to the understanding and management of emotions related to blushing and assists in developing coping strategies to improve the social functioning and psychological well-being of those who use it.

Scale Objective

The purpose of this scale is to evaluate and measure an individual’s predisposition to blush in social situations. By examining various aspects of blushing—such as frequency, embarrassment, and the attempt to conceal it—the scale provides a clear picture of how strongly an individual is affected by blushing. This can help identify individuals who may experience high levels of social embarrassment or anxiety. The use of the scale allows researchers and mental health professionals to design appropriate interventions and coping strategies aimed at improving individuals’ social functioning and psychological well-being. Additionally, it can contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying blushing and help develop more targeted therapeutic approaches.

Calibration

The BPS-19 consists of 19 items, which are rated as follows:
1 = Strongly disagree
2 = Disagree
3 = Neither agree nor disagree
4 = Agree
5 = Strongly agree

References

Leary, M. R., & Meadows, S. (1991). Predictors, elicitors, and concomitants of social blushing. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 60(2), 254–262.
Bögels, S. M., Alberts, M., & de Jong, P. J. (1996). Self-consciousness, self-focused attention, blushing propensity and fear of blushing. Personality and Individual Differences, 21, 573–581.
Mulkens, S., de Jong, P. J., & Bögels, S. M. (1997). High blushing propensity: fearful preoccupation or facial coloration? Personality and Individual Differences, 22, 817–824.
Mulkens, S., de Jong, P. J., Dobbelaar, A., & Bögels, S. M. (1999). Fear of blushing: fearful preoccupation irrespective of facial coloration. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 37, 1119–1128.