Scale Overview & Construct
5-item measure of maximizing tendency — the drive to hold high personal standards and thoroughly search alternatives before deciding — designed to exclude the decision-difficulty component present in earlier maximizing scales, reducing confusion with depressive symptoms.
Purpose & Measurement Objectives
Instrument Specifications
Academic Citation & Instrument Provenance
When referencing this instrument in research, academic theses, or clinical institutional audits, please cite the original author publication:
Governance, Boundaries & Ethical Use
Imported from the OpenScales open item-bank project. This specific digital implementation has not been independently clinically validated by PsiQ — scores are for self-reflection, research, and educational purposes only.
License: CC BY 4.0. Citation: Lai, L. (2010). Maximizing without difficulty: A modified maximizing scale and its correlates. Judgment and Decision Making, 5(3), 164-175. This is not a diagnostic tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Modified Maximizing Scale?
5-item measure of maximizing tendency — the drive to hold high personal standards and thoroughly search alternatives before deciding — designed to exclude the decision-difficulty component present in earlier maximizing scales, reducing confusion with depressive symptoms.
How long does the Modified Maximizing Scale take?
It takes about 2 minutes to answer all 5 questions. You can go at your own pace.
Is this test free, and is it available in Hindi?
Yes, it is free with a PsiQ account. The questions and answer options are available in English, Hindi and Hinglish.
Can this test diagnose a condition?
No. Online self-report scales are for self-reflection, education and research, not diagnosis. If you are worried about your mental health, please speak to a qualified mental-health professional.