Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) score

Method

Cohen Perceived Stress Scale total score (PSS-14, PSS-10, or PSS-4), self-completed, appraising the uncontrollability and unpredictability of life over the preceding month. Item count recorded on the edge and not optional, because the versions have different ranges.

The method is part of the endpoint identity. Studies measuring the same quantity by a different method are held as separate endpoints.

Notes

Confused with the pooled perceived-stress node, which is a standardised mean difference across unnamed instruments; a named PSS result recorded there loses the instrument and becomes unreproducible. Also administered in the same session as the Beck Depression Inventory and the PANAS negative-affect scale in some trials, with all three falling together: PSS measures appraised uncontrollability over a month, BDI measures depressive symptoms over two weeks, PANAS-NA measures momentary affect. Three concurrent falls are one study, not three replications. Contrast with the PANAS POSITIVE affect subscale, which improves by RISING.