The utility of the relationship assessment scale in multiple types of relationships

Abstract

Several self-report scales of marital satisfaction exist, but many are too lengthy for research protocols, and none allow for parallel assessment of satisfaction in non-romantic relationships. This paper presents results from the assessment of satisfaction in multiple types of close relationships with slight adaptations to the wording of the seven-item Relationship Assessment Scale. This scale was tested in a series of four research protocols with over 1000 undergraduate students. The scale demonstrated good internal consistency, item reliabilities, test—retest reliability, and factorial validity across diverse types of close relationships, with preliminary evidence supporting its convergent and predictive validity as well. These results suggest that the Relationship Assessment Scale can briefly and adequately assess satisfaction in multiple types of relationships.