Development of an Approach-Avoidance Commitment Scale for Romantic Relationships

Abstract

This study developed a scale that measures approach-avoidance commitment in romantic relationships, and examined its reliability and validity. Approach commitment was defined as approaching goals for rewards; this is associated with maintaining a relationship. Avoidance commitment was defined as avoiding goals because of punishments; this is associated with leaving a relationship. The participants were undergraduates, n=133 in Sample 1 and n=136 in Sample 2, who completed the Approach-Avoidance Commitment Scale for Romantic Relationships. Exploratory factor analysis revealed that the Approach-Avoidance Commitment Scale consisted of two factors, which had good internal consistency. Confirmatory factor analysis supported this two-factor structure. This study also examined the associations between the Approach-Avoidance Commitment Scale and the Investment Model Scale, the BIS/BAS Scale, ECR-GO, and IOS. The Approach-Avoidance Commitment Scale was theoretically postulated to have an association with each of these scales. The results suggested that the Approach-Avoidance Commitment Scale has sufficient validity.