Italian versions of the rupture resolution rating system and the working alliance inventory observer short form: preliminary reliability and convergent validity

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to translate the Rupture Resolution Rating System (3RS) and the Working Alliance Inventory –Observer Short Form (WAI-O-S) into Italian. As a preliminary step toward validation, inter-rater reliability and convergent validity of the translated measures were also examined. Method: First, forward–backward translation process was conducted to ensure conceptual and linguistic equivalence with the original English versions. Second, four trained raters independently applied the Italian versions of the 3RS and WAI-O-S to 47 psychotherapy sessions involving 20 different patients. Finally, inter-rater reliability (IRR) and convergent validity were analyzed. Results: This study produced the first Italian versions of the 3RS and WAI-O-S, providing conceptually robust tools to assess therapeutic alliance and rupture–repair processes. Preliminary analyses showed acceptable inter-rater reliability for both measures, though some variability emerged in certain 3RS dimensions—particularly Therapist Withdrawal and Repair. Strong correlations between the 3RS Working Together score and the WAI-O-S total score offered preliminary evidence of convergent validity. Conclusion: These preliminary findings provide initial support for the reliability and validity of the Italian 3RS and WAI-O-S. Further studies in larger and more diverse samples are necessary to examine their generalizability and clarify their applicability.