Scale Description

The Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS) is an assessment tool developed by Susan S. Hendrick in 1988. It was designed to measure individuals’ satisfaction with their romantic relationships. The scale consists of 7 statements that evaluate various aspects of the relationship, such as love, commitment, communication, and overall satisfaction.

Data Analysis and Use

Analysis of responses to the RAS involves evaluating answers to a series of 7 statements. Responses are rated on a five-point Likert scale (from 1=Strongly Disagree to 5=Strongly Agree). The statements examine individuals’ perceptions of their satisfaction with the relationship, the quality of communication, the expression of emotions, and the overall commitment to the relationship.

Objective

The objective of the RAS is to provide a brief and reliable measure of individuals’ satisfaction with their relationship. This measure can be used in research settings to study relationships, as well as in clinical settings to provide counseling services to couples.

Calibration

Calibration of the RAS involves calculating a total score, which can range from 7 to 35. Higher scores indicate greater satisfaction with the relationship. Specifically, the total score can be categorized as follows:

  • Low satisfaction: Score from 7 to 14
  • Moderate satisfaction: Score from 15 to 24
  • High satisfaction: Score from 25 to 35

Bibliography

Hendrick, S. S. (1988). A generic measure of relationship satisfaction. Journal of Marriage and the Family, 50(1), 93-98.

Vaughn, M. J., & Baier, M. E. (1999). Reliability and validity of the Relationship Assessment Scale. American Journal of Family Therapy, 27(2), 137-147.

Hendrick, S. S., Dicke, A., & Hendrick, C. (1998). The Relationship Assessment Scale: A short measure of global relationship satisfaction. Family Journal, 6(4), 392-393.

Funk, J. L., & Rogge, R. D. (2007). Testing the ruler with item response theory: Increasing precision of measurement for relationship satisfaction with the Couples Satisfaction Index. Journal of Family Psychology, 21(4), 572-583.