What is the Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale?

The Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale (MC-SDS) is a psychological assessment tool designed to measure an individual's tendency to respond in a socially desirable manner. It helps identify impression management and self-deceptive enhancement in self-report measures.

What does this assessment measure?

The scale measures social desirability bias - the tendency of respondents to answer questions in a manner that will be viewed favorably by others. This includes both conscious impression management and unconscious self-deception.

How is the MC-SDS scored?

The scale consists of 33 true/false items. Each response in the socially desirable direction receives 1 point. Total scores range from 0 to 33, with higher scores indicating a greater tendency to respond in socially desirable ways.

What do the scores mean?

Low scores (0-11): Minimal social desirability bias; responses likely authentic. Moderate scores (12-21): Average tendency toward socially desirable responding. High scores (22-33): Strong tendency toward impression management; may indicate response invalidity.

Who developed this assessment?

The Marlowe-Crowne Social Desirability Scale was developed in 1960 by Douglas P. Crowne and David Marlowe as a measure of social desirability bias in psychological research and assessment.

How is this assessment used?

The MC-SDS is commonly used in research to detect and control for social desirability bias. It helps researchers and clinicians determine the validity of self-report measures and identify individuals who may be presenting themselves in an overly favorable light.