Biosphere Compassion Self-Efficacy Scale (BCSE)

(A proto-type version with support of AI/ChatGPT)

A psychospiritual measure of confidence in acting compassionately—toward oneself, others, animals, and the Biosphere.

Instructions:

For each of the following statements, rate your confidence in your ability to do what is described, using this scale:

1 – Not at all confident

2 – Slightly confident

3 – Moderately confident

4 – Very confident

5 – Extremely confident

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 Dimension 1: Empathic Awareness

The ability to notice, recognize, and emotionally register the suffering or needs of others.

1. I can recognize when another person is emotionally distressed, even if they don’t say it directly.

2. I notice signs of suffering in animals, even when those signs are subtle.

3. I am aware of how daily choices (food, fashion, consumption) affect distant beings and ecosystems.

4. I can emotionally connect with the suffering of those I have never met (e.g., factory farmed animals, climate refugees).

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 Dimension 2: Compassionate Action

The ability to take practical and meaningful actions in response to perceived suffering.

5. I feel confident that I can reduce the harm I cause to others through my lifestyle choices.

6. I know how to respond compassionately when someone is hurting emotionally.

7. I can choose food or products that align with my ethical values, even when it's inconvenient.

8. I feel confident participating in or supporting initiatives that relieve suffering (e.g., activism, volunteering, donations).

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 Dimension 3: Moral Courage

The ability to stand up for compassion, even in the face of opposition or social pressure.

9. I can speak up when I see injustice, even if it makes others uncomfortable.

10. I can express my compassionate or vegan values in social settings without fear.

11. I feel confident saying no to behaviors or customs that go against my ethics, even when they are normalized.

12. I can defend the rights of the voiceless (e.g., animals, ecosystems) without shame or apology.

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 Dimension 4: Sustainable Compassion

The ability to maintain compassionate action without burning out, emotionally shutting down, or falling into guilt.

13. I can act compassionately without sacrificing my well-being.

14. I trust myself to set healthy boundaries while still caring for others.

15. I can return to compassion after making mistakes or falling short.

16. I can remain hopeful and caring even when the world feels overwhelming or cruel.

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 Dimension 5: Embodied Compassion

The integration of compassion into daily life, lifestyle, and identity.

17. My food and consumption choices reflect my values of kindness and sustainability.

18. I treat myself with compassion, even when I feel I’ve failed.

19. I strive to be a peaceful presence in the world, in how I walk, speak, eat, and live.

20. I see my everyday life as an opportunity to serve the well-being of others.

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 Scoring & Reflection Guide

Add up your score for each dimension (maximum: 20 per dimension).

Total score range: 20–100

Interpretive Ranges:

80–100: Deeply rooted self-efficacy in compassion; a potential guide or teacher.

60–79: Strong foundation; continuing growth and consistency can deepen impact.

40–59: Moderate self-efficacy; there may be areas where fear, confusion, or fatigue blocks action.

Below 40: Emerging awareness; rich potential for transformation and cultivation of inner strength.

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 Optional Reflection Prompts

Which dimension felt strongest for me?

Which felt least confident—and why?

What would one daily habit look like that could raise my confidence in this area?

Who inspires me to be more compassionate, and how can I learn from them?

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