Passive aggressive test is based on the preliminary study on development and validation of Deenz Passive Aggression Scale (DPAS-27). The scale measures key dimensions of passive aggressive behaviour and by assessing these facets it captures behaviours that are often difficult to detect. Higher scores does not mean a psychological condition but may indicate strong tendencies towards passive aggressive behaviours. This quiz is provided as a self-screening tool aims to facilitate a better understanding of passive aggression in interpersonal and social context.
Modern psychology emphasizes on studying Passive-aggressive behavior by assessing and measuring behavioral patterns which are often associated with interpersonal difficulties and emotional regulation challenges.[1] In the Psychodynamic perspectives passive-aggression behaviors occur as a defense mechanism by which an individual express anger indirectly instead of direct confrontation. In order to measure passive aggressive traits there are several well established scales available but a need for a spectrum based self-questionnaire has been observed. Deenz Passive Aggression Scale (DPAS-27) has been developed to provide a comprehensive analysis of passive aggressive behaviors. The self-assessment questionnaire tries to measure key 9 facets of Passive Aggression (Delay, Silence, Sabotage, Compliance, Sarcasm, Victim, Excuses, Vague, and Forgetful).
Development of the Passive Aggressive Self-test.
Passive Aggressive self-assessment was developed to provide a reliable and comprehensive tool for assessing tendencies and the impact of passive aggressive behaviors on individuals in day to day life. By assessing multiple facets the test aims to capture the spectrum of these behaviors and provide valuable insights for both researchers and for the self-assessment.
Deenz Passive Aggression Scale (DPAS-27) underwent a preliminary validation study in which 212 college students participated including 60 female and 152 males to examine the reliability and construct validity. The responses were analyzed to determine the internal consistency of the self-assessment and the distinctiveness of nine key facets. Results indicated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.89) suggesting that the items accurately measure what it intended to measure. It also confirmed that each facet captures an aspect of passive aggressive behavior.
Passive Aggression behaviors are not classified as a psychological condition but it is recognized as a behavioral pattern that can affect relationships and emotional regulation.[2] This self-assessment is not a diagnosis of any psychological condition. Everyone expresses thoughts and emotions differently, and some individuals may sometimes communicate indirectly or express frustration in subtle ways. Also, being passive-aggressive does not mean a person has a defect or a clinical condition, but it indicates a behavioral pattern in which the person tends to express anger or resentment indirectly, rather than confronting issues openly.
Who the test is designed for
This interactive version of Deenz Passive Aggression Scale (DPAS-27) is designed to look for the subclinical traits which are often associated with passive aggressive behaviors. A study which was conducted for validation and reliability of this questionnaire was based on a small population and is considered preliminary. In this study a small sample of students where selected for the participation and 16+ age limit was set . For better understanding of statements and interpreting of scores, children below age of 16 are advised to take the test under the supervision of a professional or with the help of parents.
Statements per Subscale
| Subscale | Statements | Scoring (0–4 each) | Subscale Range | Meaning of High Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delay |
| 0 = Strongly Disagree → 4 = Strongly Agree | 0–12 | Often delays or avoids tasks as silent resistance. |
| Silence |
| 0–4 each | 0–12 | Expresses anger through silence or withdrawal. |
| Sabotage |
| 0–4 each | 0–12 | Uses poor performance to resist or protest. |
| Compliance |
| 0–4 each | 0–12 | Agrees outwardly while resisting inwardly. |
| Sarcasm |
| 0–4 each | 0–12 | Uses humor or teasing to hide anger. |
| Victim |
| 0–4 each | 0–12 | Feels powerless and plays the victim role. |
| Excuses |
| 0–4 each | 0–12 | Avoids effort through rationalizations. |
| Vague |
| 0–4 each | 0–12 | Uses ambiguity to resist or avoid commitment. |
| Forgetful |
| 0–4 each | 0–12 | Uses forgetfulness or “not hearing” as avoidance. |
The online version of the self-assessment questionnaire is provided to give participants easy access to participate and gain insights, but online quizzes including this (Passive aggression test) are not considered accurate. [3]The information provided by this quiz is for educational purposes only and you should not consider the results provided as formal diagnosis or professional advice. For more information consult our terms of service.
References
- Lim, Y.-O., & Suh, K.-H. (2022). Development and Validation of a Measure of Passive Aggression Traits: The Passive Aggression Scale (PAS). Behavioral Sciences, 12(8), 273. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12080273 ↩
- Gál Z, Nagy MT, Takács IK, Kasik L. The Relationship Between Social Problem-Solving and Passive-Aggressive Behavior Among Adolescents. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ. 2025 Jul 18;15(7):140. doi: 10.3390/ejihpe15070140. PMID: 40709973; PMCID: PMC12295273. ↩
- Barak, A., & English, N. (2002). Prospects and Limitations of Psychological Testing on the Internet. Journal of Technology in Human Services, 19(2–3), 65–89. https://doi.org/10.1300/J017v19n02_06 ↩