Warsaw studies on sensation seeking

Jan Strelau , Magdalena Kaczmarek

Abstract

This chapter compares the research works on sensation seeking (SS) as postulated by Marvin Zuckerman and measured by Sensation Seeking Scale-Form-IV (SSS-IV) and SSS-V. SS and the temperament constructs developed by Pavlov have common elements. They also have common roots in the concept of arousal that Pavlov interpreted in terms of excitation. The Regulative Theory of Temperament (RTT) postulates a structure of temperament composed of six traits to be measured by the FCB-TI. When referring to the construct of arousal, the SS dimension might be considered as an expression of high need for stimulation. Thus, it should not be surprising that people who committed crimes or delinquencies are more likely to be sensation seekers than law abiding citizens. Findings show that SS is not a necessary determinant of antisocial behavior. Other individual characteristics as well as opportunities offered by the environment may influence how the need for stimulation will be expressed.