With Valentine’s Day taking place this week, many people will have their relationships at the forefront of their brains.
So, is your partner really the one?
Scientists from Stockholm University have come up with a new test that they claim reveals how satisfied you are in your relationship.
Dubbed the ‘Valentine’s Scale’, the test includes seven questions that touch on key aspects of a relationship, including emotional closeness, trust, and conflict resolution.
Best of all, it takes just two-minutes to complete.
‘This scale makes it possible to quickly and efficiently get an idea of how a relationship is doing, without having to go through long and complicated interviews or questionnaires,’ said Professor Per Carlbring, one of the researchers behind the test.
‘It can even be used during couples counselling to monitor progress over time.’
So, are you ready to find out just how solid your relationship is?
With Valentine’s Day taking place this week, many people will have their relationships at the forefront of their brains. So, is your partner really the one? (stock image)
The test includes seven statements and questions, including ‘I feel that I can confide in my partner’, ‘How emotionally close do you feel to your partner?’ and ‘How often have you recently considered separating from your partner?’
For each question, you’ll be asked to select one of four answers.
At the end of the test, you’ll be given your score out of a possible 21 points, and a summary of your results.
The highest possible score of 21 indicates you have an ‘exceptionally high level of relationship satisfaction’.
‘This suggests a nearly ideal relationship, with deep intimacy and mutual support,’ the researchers explained.
‘You seem highly satisfied with your situation.’
In contrast, a score of 0 indicates you have a ‘very low level of relationship satisfaction’.
‘This suggests that the relationship currently feels highly challenging, with strong conflicts or feelings of hopelessness,’ the researchers said.
Scientists from Stockholm University have come up with a new test that they claim reveals how satisfied you are in your relationship
‘If the situation feels overwhelming, it may be worthwhile to consider professional help.’
If your score is lower than you’d hoped, don’t panic.
The researchers say that their test is designed to open communication with your partner, rather than to create unnecessary stress.
‘If the test result raises concerns, it may be a good idea to talk about what lies behind the answers,’ Professor Carlbring explained.
‘Relationships are dynamic and affected by many factors. It may be stress, communication difficulties or other life circumstances.
‘By reflecting together, you can find ways forward, whether it’s strengthening the relationship or making other decisions.’
