The conceptual validity of empirical scale construction: The case of the sensation seeking scale

An assessment of the present state of sensation seeking (SS) research suggests that the concepts of physical risk taking and sensation seeking have become synonymous with version five of Zuckermanʹs Sensation Seeking Scale (SSS). Given this, it would appear that the validity of SS research rests on the extent to which the SSS actually measures risk taking and sensation seeking tendencies. The present paper suggests that a series of logical and conceptual errors in the development of the SSS have resulted in a scale that does not measure sensation seeking. This raises concerns about both the value and meaning of investigations in which it is employed. It is concluded that risk taking and SS research has learned more about the SSS than sensation seeking itself.