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Research Use

You have indicated that you are interested in using the Wong-Baker FACES® Pain Rating Scale (FACES Scale) in research. Please read the following information and submit the form below. We will then contact you to discuss whether a licensing agreement will be necessary for your project. After permission is given or a licensing agreement is established, we will give you access to digital formats of our scale.

Following is a brief review of some of the basics about our scale:

  • The FACES Scale is recommended for people ages three and older, not just for children.
  • Our scale is a self-assessment tool for physical pain only. We do not give permission for use in measuring emotions, moods, comfort, etc.
  • The patient needs to be able to understand the instructions and select a face that illustrates the pain he/she is experiencing. It should never be used with unresponsive patients or to compare the patient’s face to the scale to determine the level of pain.
  • No modifications should be made to this scale without our expressed permission. We are intentional about not adding color to our scale because colors are so subjective. If you see a scale with color added, that is a copyright infringement.

For more information, see our Frequently Asked Questions document.

View a list of current Wong-Baker FACES® Pain Rating Scale translations

Please complete the form below, and we will contact you regarding access to the scale.