Description

The Family Adaptability Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES-III) is a psychological assessment tool designed to measure family adaptability and cohesion. This scale evaluates how family members interact, make decisions, and manage change, as well as how close or connected they feel to one another. FACES-III helps in understanding family dynamics and identifying areas where family functioning may need support or intervention.

Data Analysis and Usage

The analysis of data from FACES-III involves:
Data Collection: Gathering responses from family members on various items that assess adaptability and cohesion. Data is typically collected through questionnaires completed by all family members.
Scoring: Calculating scores for each dimension—adaptability and cohesion—to assess family functioning. The results are aggregated to provide an overall picture of family dynamics.
Data Interpretation: Analyzing the scores to understand levels of adaptability (how well the family adjusts to change) and cohesion (the emotional connection between family members). Higher cohesion scores indicate closer family bonds, while higher adaptability scores indicate greater flexibility in family roles and rules.
Application: Results are used by family therapists, counselors, and researchers to identify strengths and challenges within the family system, guiding therapeutic interventions or further assessments.

Objectives

The main objectives of FACES-III are:
Assessment of Family Dynamics: To evaluate levels of cohesion and adaptability within the family.
Understanding Family Functioning: To explore how these dynamics influence the overall functioning and well-being of the family.
Intervention Planning: To inform the development of strategies aimed at improving family relationships, communication, and adaptability to life changes.

Calibration

The calibration of FACES-III includes:
Scoring: Each item is rated on a Likert scale, and scores are aggregated to provide a measure of the family’s cohesion and adaptability.
Statistical Analysis: Data is analyzed for reliability and validity to ensure the accuracy of results. Comparisons are often made with normative data to determine where a family stands on the cohesion and adaptability scales relative to other families.
Normative Data: Scores are interpreted against established norms to determine where a family falls in relation to other families.

Bibliography

Olson, D. H., Russell, C. S., & Sprenkle, D. H. (1989). Circumplex Model of Marital and Family Systems: VI. Theoretical Update.
Olson, D. H., Portner, J., & Bell, R. (1982). FACES-II Manual: Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales.
Olson, D. H., & Gorall, D. M. (2003). Circumplex Model of Marital and Family Systems.
Beavers, W. R., & Hampson, R. B. (2000). The Beavers Systems Model of Family Functioning.
Friedman, R. M., & Kaslow, F. W. (1986). Family Therapy: Theory and Practice.