Comprehensive Intellectual Humility Scale

Can you admit when you might be mistaken? Take this test to find out your level of “intellectual humility.”

By Mark Travers, Ph.D. | Oct 21, 2025

Intellectual humility is a valuable and multifaceted trait. It involves recognizing the limits of your own knowledge and being open to new information. It entails, in essence, always being open to the idea of being wrong or having something new to learn, and appreciating the other’s perspectives. It reflects your ability to remain curious and respectful when faced with differing opinions or uncertainty.

Having this skill (and enhancing it) has been linked to a range of psychological and social benefits. Some of these include improved decision-making, stronger relationships and greater openness to learning. It also helps reduce defensiveness during disagreements, while also promoting a deeper understanding of complex issues.

The Comprehensive Intellectual Humility Scale (CIHS) was developed to scientifically assess the degree to which individuals embody this quality. The scale consists of 20 statements that measure various dimensions of intellectual humility — such as independence of intellect and ego, openness to revising one’s viewpoint, respect for others’ viewpoints, and lack of intellectual overconfidence. By responding to these items, individuals can gain insight into how they engage with knowledge and approach personal growth in their thinking.

You can take this test here. Follow all of the steps to receive your results.

References: Krumrei-Mancuso, E. J., & Rouse, S. V. (2016). The development and validation of the Comprehensive Intellectual Humility Scale. Journal of Personality Assessment, 98, 209–221. doi:10.1080/00223891.2015.1068174

About the Author

Mark Travers, Ph.D., is the founder of Therapytips.org, where he helps match new clients with the right therapist on the team — request a session or get matched here. Mark received his B.A. in psychology, magna cum laude, from Cornell University and his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Colorado Boulder. His academic research has been published in leading psychology journals and featured in major outlets including The New York Times and The New Yorker. He is a regular contributor for Forbes, CNBC, and Psychology Today.