What is the Self-Assessment Manikin?

The Self-Assessment Manikin (SAM) is a unique tool used to measure emotional responses. It provides a simple and visual way for people to express how they feel. Instead of words, SAM uses drawings of figures to represent different emotions. This makes it easier for everyone, including those who might struggle with verbal communication, to share their feelings.

How Does It Work?

SAM typically consists of three main dimensions of emotion:

• Valence: This represents how pleasant or unpleasant a person feels. It ranges from happy (on the right) to sad (on the left).
• Arousal: This indicates the level of energy or excitement. It ranges from calm (bottom) to excited (top).
• Dominance: This shows how much control a person feels. It ranges from feeling submissive (bottom) to feeling in control (top).

Steps to Use the Self-Assessment Manikin

1. Choose the Dimension: Decide whether you want to assess valence, arousal, or dominance.
2. Select the Figure: Look at the images in the SAM tool. Pick the one that best represents how you feel for the chosen dimension.
3. Record Your Choice: Write down the number or description of the figure you selected for future reference.
4. Reflect on Your Feelings: After using SAM, take a moment to think about why you chose that figure. What emotions or situations influenced your choice?

Types of Self-Assessment Manikin

• Standard SAM: This is the most commonly used version, featuring basic figures and dimensions. It's great for general emotional assessment.
• Extended SAM: This version includes more detailed figures and additional dimensions for deeper emotional analysis. It's often used in research settings.

Real-Life Examples of Using SAM

• Clinical Settings: Therapists might ask patients to use SAM during sessions to gauge emotional progress over time. For example, a patient recovering from anxiety may use SAM to show their shift from feeling overwhelmed (sad and low arousal) to feeling more in control (happy and excited).
• Research Studies: Researchers often use SAM in studies related to advertising, media, or even games. They may ask participants to describe their emotional reactions to different stimuli using the SAM tool.
• Educational Environments: Teachers can use SAM in classrooms to help students express their feelings about various subjects or classroom dynamics. For instance, a student may indicate they feel excited about a new project by selecting an appropriate figure.

Benefits of the Self-Assessment Manikin

• Visual Representation: SAM provides a visual way to express feelings, making it accessible for all ages.
• Simplicity: It’s easy to use and understand, even for those who may have difficulty articulating emotions.
• Effective Communication: SAM helps bridge communication gaps, especially in therapeutic settings or with children.

Using the Self-Assessment Manikin can significantly enhance our understanding of emotions, making it a valuable tool in psychology and beyond.