NeuroInvesting: Build a New Investing Brain

Appendix B: Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (Revised)

Introduction: People differ in ways they act and think under various situations. Ernest Barratt developed the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale Test in 1995 to measure a person's level of impulsiveness.1 This is a revised test incorporating my comments to help you identify and be aware of ways in which you react and think as an investor.

Directions: Read each statement and circle the appropriate number on the right side of this page. Do not spend too much time on any statement. Answer quickly and honestly. Refer to Table B.1.

Table B.1 Revised Barratt Impulsiveness Scale 1

Attentional Facet	Scores
I. 1. I don't “pay attention.”2. I concentrate easily. 3. I “squirm” at plays or lectures. 4. I am a steady thinker. 5. I am restless at the theater or lectures.	1   2   3   4 1   2   3   4 1   2   3   4 1   2   3   4 1   2   3   4 1   2   3   4
II. 6. I have “racing” thoughts. 7. I change hobbies. 8. I often have extraneous thoughts when thinking. Reverse score questions are: 2 and 4 Your scores for Attentional Facet I: _____________ Your scores for Attentional Facet II: ____________ Comment: if your scores were low on both then you have a good attention span and cognitive stability, the qualities of nonimpulsivity.	1   2   3   4 1   2   3   4
Motor Facet
I. 9. I do things without thinking. 10. I make up my mind quickly. 11. I am happy-go-lucky. 12. I “act” on impulse. 13. I act on the spur of the moment. 14. I buy things on impulse. ...