What is the Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale?
The Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale (TMAS) was developed by American psychologist Janet A. Taylor in 1953 and became one of the first widely used questionnaires for measuring anxiety. “Manifest” anxiety means anxiety that shows itself in noticeable ways — in your thoughts, feelings and body. This Arabic adaptation was prepared by Dr Mostafa Fahmy and Dr Mohamed Ahmed Ghaly and standardised on young people in Egypt.
The 50 statements cover worry and nervousness, low self-confidence, sleep problems, and physical signs such as sweating, blushing, stomach upsets, headaches and a racing heart. Each “Yes” scores one point, so the total ranges from 0 to 50. The higher the score, the higher the level of anxiety.
Who should take it?
The scale can be used by anyone able to read and understand the statements, from around age 10 to adulthood. It may help if you often feel tense, worried or on edge, or notice physical symptoms of stress and want to know how much anxiety is affecting you.
How to take it
Read each statement and choose “Yes” if it fits you or “No” if it doesn’t. Think about how you generally are. Don’t spend too long on any one statement — your first honest answer is usually the best. It takes about ten minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose an anxiety disorder?
No. It measures your general level of anxiety. Only a qualified professional can diagnose an anxiety disorder after a full assessment.
Is some anxiety normal?
Yes. Anxiety is a natural response to stress and can even help us perform. It becomes a problem when it is intense, lasts a long time, or gets in the way of daily life.
What helps with anxiety?
Regular exercise, good sleep, breathing and relaxation techniques can all help. If anxiety is high, therapy such as CBT is very effective.
What does your result mean?
- 0 – 16No anxietyNo notable anxiety
- 17 – 20Mild anxietyA common, mild level
- 21 – 26Moderate anxietyWorth learning coping skills
- 27 – 29Severe anxietyReach out to a therapist
- 30 – 50Very severe anxietySeek a professional assessment
Your result is not a diagnosis, it is an indicator. A therapist reads it together with your whole story.
Medical review and sources
Rights: Based on the Taylor Manifest Anxiety Scale (J.A. Taylor, 1953). Arabic adaptation by Dr Mostafa Fahmy and Dr Mohamed Ahmed Ghaly. Used with permission.