Table of Contents
Description
The Alcohol Decisional Balance Scales are designed to assess the cognitive and emotional considerations individuals weigh when contemplating their drinking behaviors. The scales focus on evaluating the perceived pros and cons of drinking alcohol, enabling individuals to reflect on how their alcohol consumption affects their relationships, self-perception, social interactions, and various areas of functioning in their lives. Through the responses to items within these scales, users can gain insight into their motivations for drinking and the impact of their alcohol use, aiding in the decision-making process regarding their drinking habits.
Authors and Contact Email
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Purpose
The purpose of the Alcohol Decisional Balance Scales is to assist individuals in understanding the psychological and social factors that influence their drinking behavior, facilitating a better decision-making process regarding alcohol consumption.
Test Year
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Administration Method and Scoring
The scales are self-administered questionnaires where individuals rate the importance of various statements regarding their drinking behavior on a scale that ranges from 1 (Not important at all) to 5 (Extremely important). The items are divided into pros and cons categories to help users evaluate their motivations.
Reliability and Validity
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Factors and Subscales
The Alcohol Decisional Balance Scales consist of two primary versions: the traditional Alcohol Decisional Balance Scale and the Reduced Drinking—DELTA Version. Each version assesses different aspects of drinking behavior.
Keywords
Alcohol, Decisional Balance, Drinking Behavior, Motivation, Pros and Cons, Self-Reflection
Items of ‘Alcohol Decisional Balance Scale’
1. My drinking causes problems with others.
2. I like myself better when I am drinking.
3. Because I continue to drink some people think I lack the character to quit.
4. Drinking helps me deal with problems.
5. Having to lie to others about my drinking bothers me.
6. Some people try to avoid me when I drink.
7. Drinking helps me to have fun and socialize.
8. Drinking interferes with my functioning at home or/and at work.
9. Drinking makes me more of a fun person.
10. Some people close to me are disappointed in me because of my drinking.
11. Drinking helps me to loosen up and express myself.
12. I seem to get myself into trouble when drinking.
13. I could accidentally hurt someone because of my drinking.
14. Not drinking at a social gathering would make me feel too different.
15. I am losing the trust and respect of my coworkers and/or spouse because of my drinking (drug use).
16. My drinking helps give me energy and keeps me going.
17. I am more sure of myself when I am drinking.
18. I am setting a bad example for others with my drinking.
19. Without alcohol, my life would be dull and boring.
20. People seem to like me better when I am drinking.
Items of ‘Reduced Drinking—DELTA Version’
1. My drinking causes problems with others.
2. Drinking helps me deal with problems.
3. Drinking helps me to have fun and socialize.
4. Drinking interferes with my functioning at home or/and at work.
5. Some people close to me are disappointed in me because of my drinking.
6. Drinking helps me to loosen up and express myself.
7. I seem to get myself into trouble when drinking.
8. I could accidentally hurt someone because of my drinking.
9. I am more sure of myself when I am drinking.
10. Without alcohol, my life would be dull and boring.
References
http://habitslab.umbc.edu/decisional-balance-scales/http://www.addictioninfo.org/https://scales.arabpsychology.com/s/alcohol-decisional-balance-scales/