Description

The Self-Understanding Rating Scale (SURS) is a psychometric instrument designed to assess an individual’s ability to understand the psychological processes underlying their interpersonal thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Based on interpersonal theory, the scale evaluates the degree to which individuals recognize recurring relationship patterns, identify their origins, and understand how past relational experiences influence current interactions. It provides valuable insight into self-awareness, emotional insight, and interpersonal functioning, making it a useful tool in psychotherapy, counseling, personality research, and clinical assessment.

Data Analysis

Data obtained from the SURS are analyzed by calculating total and dimension-specific scores, descriptive statistics, and psychometric properties. Statistical analyses commonly include assessment of internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha, evaluation of construct validity through Exploratory (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), correlation analyses, group comparisons, and multivariate regression or Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to examine the relationships between self-understanding, interpersonal functioning, attachment patterns, emotional regulation, and psychological well-being.

Objective

The primary objective of the Self-Understanding Rating Scale (SURS) is to provide a reliable and valid assessment of individuals’ insight into their recurring interpersonal patterns and the psychological factors that shape them. The instrument supports both clinical practice and research by evaluating self-awareness, interpersonal understanding, emotional insight, and the ability to recognize and modify maladaptive relational behaviors.

Scoring

The SURS consists of statements describing common interpersonal experiences. Responses are provided using ordered rating categories, reflecting increasing levels of self-understanding and awareness of interpersonal patterns. The revised version (SUPI-R) also includes ratings of the importance of each interpersonal pattern and the individual’s awareness of these behaviors in everyday relationships. Higher scores indicate greater self-understanding, deeper awareness of interpersonal dynamics, and stronger recognition of the influence of past experiences on current relationships.

References

Connolly, M. B., Crits-Christoph, P., Kurtz, J., Butler, S. F., Shelton, R. C., Hollon, S., Barber, J. P., Baker, S., & Thase, M. E. (1999). The Reliability and Validity of a Measure of Self-Understanding of Interpersonal Patterns. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 46(4), 472–482..