What is the Body Checking Scale (BCS)?

The BCS is a 23-item self-report measure designed to assess the frequency of body checking behaviors. Body checking refers to repetitive behaviors aimed at evaluating one's body size, shape, weight, or appearance.

Who developed it and when?

Developed by Drew Reas, James Grilo, and colleagues in 2002, based on clinical observations of body checking behaviors in eating disorder patients.

What type of assessment is it?

Self-report questionnaire using a 5-point frequency scale.

What does it assess?

• Overall Body Checking: General frequency of body checking behaviors
• Specific Body Areas: Checking of particular body parts (stomach, thighs, arms, etc.)
• Mirror Checking: Use of mirrors and reflective surfaces for body evaluation
• Comparative Checking: Comparing one's body to others

How many items and what format?

23 items rated on a 5-point scale from "Never" to "Very often".

How is it scored?

Items are summed to create a total body checking score. Higher scores indicate more frequent body checking behaviors.