Level of Expressed Emotion Scale – LEE
Measures the level of expressed emotion (criticism, hostility, and emotional over-involvement) in a relationship from the perspective of the key relative or the patient.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Level of Expressed Emotion Scale – LEE was developed by Cole, J. D., & Kazarian, S. S. (1988). It is designed to measure Expressed Emotion. The scale is intended for use with Adults and adolescents.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 60 items organized into 4 factors/subscales: Intrusiveness, Emotional Response, Attitude toward Illness, Tolerance/Expectations.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Intrusiveness | 5,9,13,17,21,29,33,37,41,45,49,53,57 | 13 |
| Emotional Response | 2,6,10,14,18,24,25,26,30,38,42,46,54,58 | 14 |
| Attitude toward Illness | 7,11,15,19,27,31,35,39,43,47,50,51,55,59 | 14 |
| Tolerance/Expectations | 1,3,4,8,12,16,20,22,23,28,32,34,36,40,44,48,52,56,60 | 19 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a dichotomous True/False format.
The scale includes 30 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.82 – 0.90.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.