Introducing the addictive daydreaming scale: development and Polish validation of the ADS-20 and ADS-5.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Maladaptive daydreaming (MD) is a pattern of excessive, compulsive fantasizing associated with functional impairment. While its classification remains debated, increasing evidence suggests that it may be understood as an addictive form of emotion regulation. This study aimed to develop and validate a new self-report tool, grounded in the behavioral addiction framework, for screening and assessing the severity of MD, and to examine its potential clinical utility.

Methods

A mixed-clinical (N = 182) and non-clinical (N = 231) sample completed the Addictive Daydreaming Scale (ADS) in two forms: a 20-item full version (ADS-20) and a 5-item screening test (ADS-5), together with established measures of MD, quality of life, and self-rated impact of daydreaming.

SUBMITTER: Pietkiewicz IJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12745272 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature