Three-dimensional (3-D) Circumplex Model and revised scoring of FACES III

Area of Science:

• Family Psychology
• Family Systems Theory
• Psychometric Assessment

Background:

• The Circumplex Model provides a framework for understanding family systems.
• FACES III is a widely used instrument to assess family dynamics within this model.
• Previous research has shown mixed support for the Circumplex Model's curvilinear hypotheses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a revised interpretation of FACES III scores within the context of the expanded three-dimensional Circumplex Model.
• To re-evaluate past and guide future research utilizing FACES III.
• To enhance the conceptual and methodological alignment between FACES III and the Circumplex Model.

Main Methods:

• Re-analysis and re-interpretation of existing FACES III data using a linear scoring approach.
• Comparison of FACES III findings with results from the Clinical Rating Scale (CRS).
• Recommendation for future studies to employ both FACES III and observational methods like the CRS.

Main Results:

• A linear scoring approach for FACES III, where high scores indicate Balanced families and low scores indicate Extreme families, aligns with the 3-D Circumplex Model.
• The Clinical Rating Scale (CRS) supports the curvilinear hypotheses of the Circumplex Model, suggesting limitations in previous FACES III applications.
• Revised scoring of FACES III is expected to increase empirical support for the Circumplex Model's core tenets.

Conclusions:

• FACES III remains a valuable tool when interpreted linearly within the 3-D Circumplex Model.
• Future research should adopt linear scoring for FACES III and integrate observational measures like the CRS for a comprehensive family assessment.
• This approach will strengthen the empirical foundation of the Circumplex Model and advance family psychology research and practice.