PSS-4
Perceived Stress Scale (4-item)
The Perceived Stress Scale (4-item) (PSS-4) is a 4-item general distress / well-being assessment for adults. It typically takes about 2 minutes to complete, producing a total score from 0 to 16 where higher scores indicate greater symptom severity.
4
2 min
adult
0–16
About the PSS-4
The Perceived Stress Scale (4-item) (PSS-4) is a 4-item general distress / well-being assessment for adults. It typically takes about 2 minutes to complete, producing a total score from 0 to 16 where higher scores indicate greater symptom severity.
First published in 1988 by Cohen S, Williamson G, the PSS-4 is free to use for clinical and research purposes with attribution. With Psyche Assess you can send the PSS-4 to clients online, score it automatically, and generate a clinician-ready report in seconds.
PSS-4 questions
- 1
In the last month, how often have you felt that you were unable to control the important things in your life?
- 2
In the last month, how often have you felt confident about your ability to handle your personal problems?
- 3
In the last month, how often have you felt that things were going your way?
- 4
In the last month, how often have you felt difficulties were piling up so high that you could not overcome them?
Items reproduced from a documented, freely usable source. Item wording is preserved exactly as published.
Scoring & interpretation
| Range | Band | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5 | Low stress | Low perceived stress. |
| 6–9 | Moderate stress | Moderate perceived stress — consider stress-management strategies. |
| 10–16 | High stress | High perceived stress — clinical review recommended. |
Higher scores indicate greater symptom severity.
Frequently asked questions
How many items does the PSS-4 have?
The PSS-4 has 4 items and takes about 2 minutes to complete.
How is the PSS-4 scored?
Item responses are summed for a total score from 0 to 16, where higher scores indicate greater severity. Totals fall into the interpretive bands shown above.
Is the PSS-4 free to use?
The PSS-4 is free to use for clinical and research purposes provided the authors are credited and the item wording is not altered.
Who is the PSS-4 for?
The PSS-4 is designed for adult and is used by clinicians, researchers, and integrated-care teams.
Source & references
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