Cut-off scores for the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale–short form (BIS–15): sense and nonsense.

The Barratt Impulsiveness Scale–short form (BIS–15) is a questionnaire used to measure impulsivity as a trait. It is a shorter version of the BIS–11. There is no specific cut-off score for the BIS–15 because impulsivity is not a mental disorder and cannot be classified into categories. However, mean scores on the BIS–15 in different samples ranged between 29 and 42, with higher scores seen in samples with conditions associated with elevated impulsivity. The author suggests that scores around 40-45 can be considered "moderately impulsive," while scores above 45 can be seen as "markedly impulsive." It is important to use BIS–15 scores as continuous variables and further research is needed to validate the interpretation guidelines provided. [Extracted from the article]