Using the BIS/BAS scales to measure behavioural inhibition and behavioural activation: Factor structure, validity and norms in a large community sample

The Behavioural Inhibition System and Behavioural Activation System (BIS/BAS) scales of Carver and White (1994) were used in an Australian community sample of 2725 individuals aged 18-79. Factor analysis of the BIS/BAS items supported the 4-factor structure found by Carver and White, as well as a 2-factor structure reflecting separate behavioural inhibition and behavioural activation systems. The BIS scale was related to neuroticism and negative affectivity, while the BAS scale was related to extraversion and positive affectivity. The BIS scale was less correlated with anxiety and depression symptoms than are neuroticism and negative affectivity scales, probably because it is designed to measure predisposition to anxiety rather than the experience of anxiety. BIS scores were higher in females, while the BAS subscales showed a more complex pattern, with reward responsiveness scores higher in females and drive scores higher in males. Both BIS and BAS scores were lower in older age groups, suggesting the possibility that the behavioural inhibition and behavioural activation systems become less responsive with age.