Development of the Couple Financial Conflict Scale: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Conflict over financial matters is a prevalent challenge among couples and, when persistent, can undermine relationship stability. Despite its significance, the availability of validated assessment tools to measure financial conflict within intimate relationships remains limited. Grounded in Couples and Finances Theory, this study presents the development of the Couple Financial Conflict Scale (CFCS), an innovative, eight-item instrument designed to evaluate the presence and frequency of self-reported financial conflict between partners. Preliminary findings suggest that the CFCS demonstrates acceptable reliability and validity. The study discusses implications for both practitioners and researchers, highlighting potential applications in clinical and academic settings.