Validation of the Scale of Preferences and Expectations in Close Interpersonal Relationships (EPERIC)

Résumé 0

"Background: The most commonly used instruments for assessing adult attachment have shown differing combinations of items and divergences in the resulting sub-scales. Method: This study presents the Scale of Preferences and Expectations in Close Interpersonal Relationships (Escala de Preferencias y Expectativas en las Relaciones Interpersonales Cercanas, EPERIC), made up of 22 items, and based upon the Relationship Scales Questionnaire (RSQ) of Griffi n and Bartholomew. Exploratory and confi rmatory factorial analyses (EFA and CFA) were undertaken using data from a sample of 594 people. Results: Factor analysis distinguishes three sub-scales: Fear of rejection or abandonment, Desire for closeness and Preference for independence, which explains 42.78% of the total variance. The alpha coeffi cients reveal a high internal consistency of the instrument and its sub-scales. Regarding validity, CFA showed an adequate fi t for the trifactorial solution, and the expected correlations with other instruments for assessing attachment style in adults were found. EPERIC is also suitable for predicting affective states and psychological well-being. Conclusions: The EPERIC is a potentially useful and valid instrument for research and clinical purposes. The discussion focuses on the fact that our results support a model of three factors rather than two, as is usual in studies on adult attachment."