Validation and Reliability of the Negative Interaction Scale for Couple Relationships in Peru: A Bayesian...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Relationship Science
• Psychometrics

Background:

• Negative interactions significantly impact couple relationship satisfaction and individual health.
• A culturally relevant and reliable measurement tool for negative interactions is needed, particularly in Peru.
• Existing scales may not adequately capture the nuances of negative interactions in diverse couple relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the Negative Interaction Scale (NIS-5) using a Bayesian approach for confirmatory factor analysis (BCFA) in a Peruvian context.
• To assess the psychometric properties, including reliability and validity, of the NIS-5 for measuring negative interactions in couple relationships.
• To provide a precise and reliable instrument for researchers and clinicians studying relationship dynamics.

Main Methods:

• Bayesian confirmatory factor analysis (BCFA) was employed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the NIS-5.
• Data were collected from 313 participants in Peru using the NIS-5 and the Peruvian version of the Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS).
• Statistical analysis focused on assessing the scale's unidimensional structure, factor loadings, internal consistency, and overall fit indices.

Main Results:

• The NIS-5 demonstrated a robust unidimensional structure with excellent fit indices.
• Factor loadings were moderate to strong, indicating that items effectively measure the underlying construct of negative interaction.
• The scale exhibited good internal consistency, with an omega reliability coefficient of 0.836, confirming its reliability.

Conclusions:

• The NIS-5 is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring negative interactions in couple relationships within the Peruvian cultural context.
• The findings support the global and unique interpretation of negative interaction as measured by the NIS-5.
• The study underscores the importance of addressing negative interactions to enhance relationship quality and mental health, suggesting implications for interventions and theoretical models.