Sexual Self-Disclosure Scale (SSDS)
Measures the extent of self-disclosure on various sexual topics to specific target persons (mother, father, same-sex friend, and dating partner).
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Sexual Self-Disclosure Scale (SSDS) was developed by Edward S. Herold & Leslie Way (1988). It is designed to measure Sexual Self-Disclosure. The scale is intended for use with Adolescents and young adults.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 8 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Have told the person nothing about this aspect of me., 2 = Have talked only in general terms about this item., 3 = Have talked in some detail about this item but have not fully discussed my own attitudes or behaviors., 4 = Have talked in complete detail about this item to the other person. He or she knows me fully in this respect..
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 8 to 32. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low sexual self-disclosure: 8 – 16
- Moderate sexual self-disclosure: 17 – 24
- High sexual self-disclosure: 25 – 32
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Cronbach's alpha: Mother (.84), Father (.71), Same-sex friend (.89), Dating partner (.94).
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.