Psychology RootsBrief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges (QSU-Brief)
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About Brief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges (QSU-Brief)
Scale Name
Brief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges (QSU-Brief)
Author Details
Lisa Sanderson Cox, Stephen T. Tiffany, and Arden G. Christen
Translation Availability
English
Background/Description
The Brief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges (QSU-Brief), developed by Cox, Tiffany, and Christen (2001), is a 10-item self-report scale designed to measure cigarette craving intensity in active smokers. Published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research, it is a shortened version of the 32-item Questionnaire of Smoking Urges (QSU; Tiffany & Drobes, 1991), assessing two dimensions: Factor 1 (strong desire and intention to smoke, with smoking perceived as rewarding) and Factor 2 (anticipation of relief from negative affect with an urgent desire to smoke). The QSU-Brief is used in laboratory and clinical settings to evaluate craving responses to smoking cues and during cessation efforts.
Participants rate their current (momentary) craving on a 7-point Likert scale (1 = “Strongly Disagree” to 7 = “Strongly Agree”) for statements like “I have a desire for a cigarette right now.” Total scores range from 10–70, with higher scores indicating stronger craving. The QSU-Brief was validated with 221 active smokers in a laboratory setting (Study 1, mean age ≈ 30–40 years, ~50% female, U.S.-based) and 112 smokers in a cessation program (Study 2). About 70–80% reported increased craving in response to smoking cues. The scale correlates with nicotine dependence (r ≈ 0.40–0.60), mood intensity (r ≈ 0.30–0.50), and smoking frequency (r ≈ 0.35–0.55). It is used in clinical psychology, addiction research, and smoking cessation programs to assess craving and guide interventions.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Obtain the scale from Cox et al. (2001) or authorized sources (e.g., Nicotine & Tobacco Research, University of Wisconsin ARC), ensuring ethical permissions.
- Explain to participants (active smokers or those in cessation programs) that the questionnaire assesses current cigarette craving, emphasizing confidentiality and voluntary participation.
- Administer the 10-item scale in a laboratory, clinical, or research setting, using paper or digital formats, with instructions to rate current feelings about smoking.
- Estimated completion time is 1–2 minutes.
- Ensure a private, supportive environment; provide support resources (e.g., smoking cessation helplines) and adapt for accessibility (e.g., oral administration) if needed.
Reliability and Validity
The QSU-Brief demonstrates strong psychometric properties (Cox et al., 2001; Toll et al., 2006). Internal consistency is high (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.75 for total score and both factors) across laboratory (N = 221) and clinical (N = 112) samples. Confirmatory factor analysis supports a two-factor structure (Factor 1: positive reinforcement; Factor 2: negative reinforcement), consistent with the original QSU. Convergent validity is evidenced by correlations with the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (r ≈ 0.40–0.60) and mood measures (r ≈ 0.30–0.50).
Criterion validity is shown by its sensitivity to smoking cues and cessation-related craving changes. The scale has been validated in diverse populations, including Black light smokers (N = 540, Cox et al., 2012) and Bengali smokers (Ahmed et al., 2021). Pairing with measures like the Minnesota Nicotine Withdrawal Scale or Leeds Dependence Questionnaire enhances comprehensive assessment.
Available Versions
10-Items
Reference
Cox, L. S., Tiffany, S. T., & Christen, A. G. (2001). Evaluation of the brief questionnaire of smoking urges (QSU-brief) in laboratory and clinical settings. Nicotine & tobacco research, 3(1), 7-16.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Brief Questionnaire of Smoking Urges measure?
It measures cigarette craving intensity, capturing desire/intention to smoke and relief from negative affect.
Who is the target population?
Active smokers or those in smoking cessation programs.
How long does it take to administer?
Approximately 1–2 minutes.
Can it inform interventions?
Yes, it assesses craving to guide smoking cessation strategies.
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