The Brief Partner Behavioral Control Scale (B-PBCS): Development and Validation

Abstract

Despite the large growth of close relationships literature, partner behavioral control has been rarely the primary focus of research. It is also evident that the instruments for measuring partner behavioral control are scarce. Thus, the present study aims to develop and validate a 9-item Brief Partner Behavioral Control Scale (B-PBCS). The validity and reliability of the B-PBCS were examined in a sample of emerging adults (N = 511; 81.8% females; Rangeage = 18-25) who are currently in a premarital romantic relationship. To assess psychometric properties of the B-PBCS, we conducted a series of tests examining factor structure (exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses), measurement invariance (configural and metric invariance), reliability (internal consistency and test-retest reliability), and predictive validity. Results demonstrated that the B-PBCS has a two-factor solution (overt and covert partner behavioral control), acceptable measurement invariance, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and predictive validity. The overt partner behavioral control at baseline assessment has been linked to romantic relationship conflict and psychological distress at 14-week follow-up assessment even after controlling for sex, age, and relationship duration. In conclusion, the B-PBCS offers a valid and brief measure for assessing partner behavioral control.