Scale Overview
The Touch Apprehension Scale – TAS was developed by Virginia P. Richmond & James C. McCroskey (2004). It is designed to measure Touch Apprehension. The scale is intended for use with Adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 14 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a 5-point Likert scale (1 = Strongly Disagree to 5 = Strongly Agree).
The scale includes 7 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 14 to 70. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low touch orientation (Avoider): 14 – 29
- Average touch orientation (General Culture): 30 – 50
- High touch orientation (Approacher): 51 – 70
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.