def scalar_inc_dec(word, valence, is_cap_diff):
    """
    Check if the preceding words increase, decrease, or negate/nullify the
    valence
    """
    scalar = 0.0
    word_lower = word.lower()
    if word_lower in BOOSTER_DICT:
        scalar = BOOSTER_DICT[word_lower]
        if valence < 0:
            scalar *= -1
        # check if booster/dampener word is in ALLCAPS (while others aren't)
        if word.isupper() and is_cap_diff:
            if valence > 0:
                scalar += C_INCR
            else:
                scalar -= C_INCR
    return scalar