Scale Description

The Relational Pursuit Scale (RPS) is an assessment tool designed to measure behaviors and attitudes related to the pursuit of an interpersonal relationship. This scale evaluates various aspects of relational pursuit, such as persistence, intensity, and the strategies individuals use to initiate or maintain a relationship.

Data Analysis and Use

The analysis of responses on the RPS involves evaluating answers to a series of statements related to relational pursuit. Responses are scored on a five-point Likert scale (from 1=Strongly Disagree to 5=Strongly Agree). The statements cover various aspects of relational pursuit, including determination, emotional investment, strategic approach, and reaction to rejection.

Objective

The objective of the RPS is to provide a reliable measure of relational pursuit and to help researchers and practitioners better understand how and why individuals pursue relationships. This measure can be used to identify relationship dynamics, assess the effectiveness of approach strategies, and develop interventions to improve relationships.

Calibration

Calibration of the RPS involves calculating an overall score that indicates the degree of relational pursuit by the individual. Higher scores indicate greater intensity and persistence in relational pursuit, while lower scores indicate lower intensity and persistence. The scoring can be categorized as follows:

  • Low Relational Pursuit: Low scores indicating low intensity and persistence in relational pursuit.
  • Moderate Relational Pursuit: Moderate scores indicating moderate intensity and persistence in relational pursuit.
  • High Relational Pursuit: High scores indicating high intensity and persistence in relational pursuit.

Bibliography

Cupach, W. R., & Spitzberg, B. H. (2004). The dark side of relationship pursuit: From attraction to obsession and stalking. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

Spitzberg, B. H., & Cupach, W. R. (2003). Interpersonal communication competence. In J. O. Greene & B. R. Burleson (Eds.), Handbook of communication and social interaction skills (pp. 515-549). Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

Sinclair, H. C., & Frieze, I. H. (2000). Initial courtship behavior and stalking: How should we draw the line? In K. D. O’Leary & R. D. Maiuro (Eds.), Psychological abuse in violent domestic relations (pp. 291-311). Springer.

Dutton, D. G., & Winstead, B. A. (2006). Predicting unwanted pursuit: Attachment styles, relationship satisfaction, and obsessive relational intrusion. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 23(3), 507-524.