The contextual sensation seeking questionnaire for skiing and snowboarding (CSSQ-S) development of a sport specific scale

The Contextual Sensation Seeking Questionnaire (CSSQ-S) was developed to measure patterns of sensation-seeking behaviours in skiing and snowboarding. We conducted three studies supporting several aspects of its validity. First, using a focus group (n = 4) we generated items representative of sensation seeking in skiing and explored the factor structure in a sample of skiers (n₁ = 220). Second, we confirmed the factor structure using data from an independent cohort (n₂ = 530). Finally, we provide evidence for criterion-relevance and applied utility of CSSQ-S scores by demonstrating positive relationships between scores and self-reported injury. CSSQ-S scores explained greater variance (n₁ = 217, β = .358, p < .001) in injury prevalence than an established assessment tool (Zuckerman's Impulsive-Sensation Seeking scale). In summary, the CSSQ-S represents a psychometrically promising measure of contextual sensation seeking and may be used to explore factors associated with risk-taking in skiing and snowboarding.